Professional Abstract

Individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) often face significant oral health challenges that can negatively impact their overall well-being and hinder recovery. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project evaluates the effectiveness of an intervention combining oral health care kits and educational materials within an outpatient SUD rehabilitation facility. The initiative aims to improve participants' oral health knowledge, hygiene practices, and self-reported self-esteem. Using a quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, the project measures changes in these outcomes over eight weeks.

The intervention is grounded in behavior change and quality improvement frameworks and includes tools such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, lip balm, and an educational brochure. With a targeted sample of 43 participants, the project seeks measurable improvements in oral hygiene habits, increased self-efficacy in maintaining oral health, and enhanced self-esteem scores. By integrating oral health support into SUD treatment, this initiative promotes a holistic recovery model that addresses physical and psychosocial health.

The outcomes of this project have the potential to inform best practices, support interdisciplinary collaboration, and reduce health disparities among individuals in recovery.

Keywords: Substance use disorder, oral health, self-esteem, health education, recovery, intervention, hygiene practices, quality improvement