Junkin M E, France K. Intimate partner violence: the time is now to improve dental care providers' awareness and implement widespread screening. J Am Dent Assoc 2025; DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2025.07.003.

A possible cause of head and neck trauma

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a behavioural pattern within an intimate relationship when a romantic partner, spouse or ex-partner causes harm, often to gain control or power within the relationship. IPV affects people of all gender identities, as well as all races and ethnic groups. More than one-third of American women aged 18+ report experience of some form of IPV.

Dentists may see those affected and have the opportunity to identify concerns if, for instance, bruising and contusions to the head and neck, torn frenulae or fractured teeth are observed. Barriers to addressing the issue include embarrassment, fear of offending the patient, a lack of education and referral sources, and the presence of a partner. Patients' barriers to disclosure include embarrassment, fear of judgment and an assumption that dental care professionals cannot offer help.

The full text of the paper is accessible to members through the BDA Library/Science Direct and gives protocols for best practice, a safety awareness form and a trauma questionnaire.