Investigating the dental risks of medications used for opioid addiction treatment

Comparative Risk of Oral Complications Associated with Medications for Opioid Use Disorder: A Mixed-Methods Approach

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10765049

This study is looking into how medications for treating opioid addiction, especially buprenorphine, might affect your dental health, so we can better understand the risks and benefits for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10765049 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the potential oral health complications associated with medications used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD), particularly focusing on buprenorphine. By gathering data through observational studies and interviews with patients and healthcare providers, the project aims to clarify the relationship between these medications and dental issues. The findings will help inform both patients and providers about the risks and benefits of these treatments, ultimately aiming to improve patient care and decision-making regarding opioid addiction therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals currently receiving or considering medications for opioid use disorder, particularly those using buprenorphine.

Not a fit: Patients who are not using or considering medications for opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical evidence to help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about opioid use disorder treatments and their potential impact on dental health.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been discussions and preliminary reports regarding the dental risks of opioid use disorder medications, this research aims to fill a significant gap in rigorous evidence, making it a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.