{Reference Type}: Systematic Review
{Title}: Mental health screening and referral to treatment in dental practices: A scoping review.
{Author}: Culmer NP;Smith TB;Berryhill MB;Gurenlian J;Simpson L;Ogden S;Parrish J;Ryan L;White N;Bettis M;Greenwood C;
{Journal}: J Dent Educ
{Volume}: 88
{Issue}: 4
{Year}: 2024 Apr 28
{Factor}: 2.313
{DOI}: 10.1002/jdd.13444
{Abstract}: <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>The purpose of this study was to conduct a scoping review to examine and summarize the characteristics of research related to mental health (MH) screenings and/or referrals to treatment in dental practices.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for Scoping Reviews and searched multiple databases for terms connected with dental care, MH concerns, screening, and referral. Included articles: (1) described care provided in a dental practice, (2) described a situation where the patient is experiencing the potential MH problem, (3) did not involve dental anxiety exclusively, and (4) involved some form of MH screening and/or referral to treatment. Article analysis included a summary of key study characteristics, types of evidence, study design, and central concepts and definitions.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>The search generated 2050 records, with 26 ultimately included. Most studies involved only adults (22, 85%), but only three (12%) reported on rurality (two urban; one mixed) and only two each (8%) reported race or ethnicity. Fifteen (58%) articles were prospective and 11 (42%) were retrospective. The studies varied widely in study designs, from 11 (42%) cross-sectional methodologies to only one (4%) randomized controlled trial. Thirty-four screening tools were used to screen for symptoms of 43 MH conditions, with depression and anxiety screened for most frequently. Few articles discussed making referrals, practice workflows, or follow-up outcomes.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Included studies provide evidence of viable options for dental practitioners regarding MH screening, referring, and conducting follow-up, but lack specificity regarding these processes. Overall, more research is needed to clarify what workflows are most efficient for dental practitioners and efficacious in identifying patients with MH concerns.