Enhancing Pharmacists' Role As Oral Health Advisors

Objective: To examine the expanded role of pharmacists as oral health advisors.

Setting: U.S. community pharmacies.

Practice Description: Counseling patients on issues related to oral health.

Practice Innovation: The traditional role of pharmacists (i.e., dispensing medications) has evolved to include a broader range of functions associated with primary health care. Pharmacists are important members of the health care team and have an important role in addressing oral health-related problems. The pharmacist role in addressing oral health issues in the United States should be expanded.

Conclusion: Studies are needed to examine the extent of pharmacist training in oral health, the degree to which pharmacists who receive oral health training incorporate it into their practices, and pharmacist interest in relevant continuing education. Data gathered from such studies will be invaluable in developing appropriate training standards, model curricula, and clinical best practices.