Back to All

Heal Faster: Eliminate Opioids

Behavior, Health Literacy, Psychology of Healing

 

Presented by: Walter Tatch, DDS & Debbie Zafiropoulos, RDH

Original Publication Date: February 7, 2018

Take the Course

This course is available for CE Credit as a "Members Only" benefit. Not a Member? CLICK HERE to learn more about AAOSH Membership.

Course Description:

The opioid crisis is a national emergency and has been claiming lives for years. US life expectancy fell last year for a second year running for the first time in more than half a century, reportedly driven by the worsening opioid crisis. In this presentation, we will discuss natural alternatives to pain management that can significantly decrease and, in some instances, eliminate the need for opioids to manage pain after various dental procedures.

Learning Objectives:

  • Define the opioid crisis and its impact on life expectancy.
  • Identify common painful dental procedures.
  • Recognize the risks of using opioids for pain management.
  • Describe effective natural pain management alternatives.
  • Discuss the role of healthcare providers in addressing the opioid crisis.
  • Analyze patient preferences in pain management.
  • Develop a plan for promoting natural alternatives.
  • Evaluate the impact of natural alternatives in reducing opioid use.
  • Encourage advocacy and awareness among participants.

Speaker Bios:

Dr. Walter Tatch has been a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon for over 13 years. He graduated from the University of California at San Francisco and the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Tatch is a Fellow of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and American and International Associations of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. He is also a member of numerous professional organizations, including ADA, CDA, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Tatch has devoted his career to excellence in patient care and comfort.

Debbie Zafiropoulos, or Debbie Z as she is known in the industry, has dedicated her life to advocating for disease prevention through education and the progress and integration of science and technology.  In 2015, Debra founded the NationalCancerNetwork.org, a 501(c)(3) to assist those with a cancer diagnosis and the caregiver. Her passion and drive have earned Debra numerous awards and distinctions in the industry, not only as an advisor to many Fortune 100 companies but also to start-up companies needing her unique insight, drive, and experience.