Investigating dental health in patients using buprenorphine for opioid use disorder
Oral Health Utilization and Outcomes Among Patients on Medications for Opioid Use Disorder
This study is looking at how using a medication called buprenorphine affects dental health in people with opioid use disorder, to see if it makes a difference compared to other treatments, and it's designed for patients who are receiving care for this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10899637 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research examines the relationship between the use of transmucosal buprenorphine and dental health outcomes among patients diagnosed with opioid use disorder. By analyzing data from a cohort of patients at the VA, the study aims to identify patterns in dental care utilization and outcomes over time. It will compare patients on buprenorphine with those receiving other forms of medication-assisted treatment to understand any potential negative impacts on dental health. The approach includes rigorous statistical methods to control for confounding factors that may affect the results.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are receiving or have received buprenorphine treatment.
Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with opioid use disorder or those who have not been treated with buprenorphine may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dental care strategies for patients undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential dental health issues associated with opioid use disorder treatments, suggesting that this investigation could build on existing findings.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Durkin, Michael Joseph — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Durkin, Michael Joseph
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.