key: cord-0017401-klgtwptp
authors: Mughal, F.
title: Suicide prevention training
date: 2021-05-14
journal: Br Dent J
DOI: 10.1038/s41415-021-3039-3
sha: c932317c9cf3f9b0330be75835de1644b4a1806a
doc_id: 17401
cord_uid: klgtwptp

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unfortunately, presently a scarcity of well evaluated training programmes for GDPs and GPs to access, and this is concerning.

As clinicians on the frontline in primary care, the number of patients presenting to GDPs and GPs with mental health concerns and suicidal behaviours, particularly as a result of the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 on the public, may increase. There have been documented rises in suicidal thinking in young people early in COVID-19, which is worrying. 3 Rates of self-harm recorded in primary care have, however, not exceeded expected annual levels through COVID-19 thus far, but there may be an unmet need which could soon show itself, particularly as we near some type of normality. 4 There is an opportunity for early self-harm identification and intervention by GDPs and GPs which can prevent repeat self-harm and reduce suicide risk. This is crucial in the primary care response to suicide prevention. To achieve this, we urgently need to develop the suicide prevention evidence-base in both dental and general practice settings. Primary care networks have an important responsibility to incorporate community dental teams and prioritise evidenceinformed suicide prevention training for GDPs and GPs, which if done alongside each other and perhaps remotely, would improve access, knowledge transfer, and shared learning.

F Paediatric dentistry

Sir, I write further to the letter Ledermix in children. 1 The authors write that Odontopaste shows no contraindication for use in children, however, the manufacturer does state that the product should not be utilised for patients with an allergy to clindamycin or lincomycin. It should also not be used for patients who are undergoing erythromycin therapy since the two drugs have been noted to demonstrate antagonism in vitro. Additionally, its use is not advised in patients presenting with a history of gastrointestinal illness, particularly that of colitis. 2 These contraindications/precautions all pertain to conditions and therapies in the paediatric population and dentists must be aware of these before incorporating this preparation into their practices. 

Sir, temperature screening of patients (as well as staff) in dental settings was made part of the triaging process during the COVID-19 pandemic with variable outcomes. However, the use of thermometers to aid decision making and treatment planning in dentistry goes beyond COVID-19. The use of thermometers is recommended within SDCEP guidelines when assessing the systemic involvement of dental infections. 1 There is no reference to the type of thermometer that should be used within the SDCEP document, but there is plenty of literature on the accuracy of different types available. Tympanic infrared thermometers provide greater accuracy than non-contact types. Other types of thermometer that are more reliable are more invasive in nature and harder to disinfect, providing a difficult balance between accuracy and suitability within dentistry.

I hope this leads to those with thermometers for clinical use to review if they are fit for purpose, and to become familiar with the manufacturer guidelines to maximise accuracy for their purchased thermometers.

Sir, I read the recent letters with real interest. 1 

Ledermix in children

Drug Prescribing For Dentistry -Dental Clinical Guidance