Born Into Addiction: Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome and Pediatric Dentistry
Drug overdose and opioid-involved deaths continue to increase across the United States. An end-condition related to opioid abuse is neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). The implications for pregnant or post-partum women using an opioid, whether prescribed or illicit, can have significant
effects on their infant. First described in the 1970s, NAS is defined as a postnatal drug withdrawal syndrome that primarily occurs in opioid-exposed infants. There are no nationally accepted, evidence-based treatment protocols for these infants. Pediatric dentists should be cognizant of potential
dental development issues and developmental delays in children with NAS. Basic behavior guidance techniques, such as tell-show-do, may not be as effective. In addition, adherence to prescription drug monitoring programs can help identify patients who may have received multiple opioids, alerting
the provider to possible misuse or abuse. The purpose of this paper was to provide background information on the incidences and potential dental implications for children with neonatal abstinence syndrome.
Keywords: NEONATAL ABSTINENCE SYNDROME; OPIOIDS
Document Type: Short Communication
Affiliations: Assistant professor, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA;, Email: [email protected]
Publication date: 01 September 2017
- Pediatric Dentistry is the official publication of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. It is published bi-monthly and is internationally recognized as the leading journal in the area of pediatric dentistry. The journal promotes the practice, education and research specifically related to the specialty of pediatric dentistry. This peer-reviewed journal features scientific articles, case reports and abstracts of current pediatric dental research.
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