Is domestic violence considered an oral health issue?

Domestic violence is certainly a women's health and oral health issue. One forms of domestic violence is spousal abuse, but the American Dental Association uses the blanket term "intimate partner violence" or IPV. IPV may occur more than 4 million times per year. Many injuries sustained from IPV are those of the mouth, head, and neck. The health of the jaw, teeth, and gums is an important consideration when violence occurs. Dentists may be able to recognize IPV if they are not told directly. IPV is against the law and healthcare providers must report suspected cases to local authorities. Dentists, periodontists, and oral surgeons are also trained to help repair any trauma to teeth or gums.