Puerto Rico Dentists Partner with Drug-Free World for Education
- A collaboration between the College of Dental Surgeons of Puerto Rico (CCDPR) and the Drug-Free World Foundation aims to bolster preventative education regarding the impact of drug use...
- The partnership will integrate evidence-based educational programs, preventative materials, and awareness activities directed towards dentists, dental auxiliary personnel, students, and the broader community.
- Bernard Fialkoff, President of Drug-Free World - Americas Chapter; and Dr.
A collaboration between the College of Dental Surgeons of Puerto Rico (CCDPR) and the Drug-Free World Foundation aims to bolster preventative education regarding the impact of drug use on both oral and systemic health. The agreement, formalized on , during the Puerto Rico Oral Health Congress 2026 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, signifies a commitment to a more comprehensive approach to healthcare.
The partnership will integrate evidence-based educational programs, preventative materials, and awareness activities directed towards dentists, dental auxiliary personnel, students, and the broader community. The initiative intends to strengthen the role of dental professionals as key figures in preventing substance use and detecting potential issues early on.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Yvette Rodríguez, President of the CCDPR; Dr. Bernard Fialkoff, President of Drug-Free World – Americas Chapter; and Dr. Carlos Rigau, President-Elect of the CCDPR. The signatories expressed their belief that this alliance represents a significant step toward a more holistic view of health, where preventative education and social responsibility are integral to modern dental practice.
The Importance of Preventative Education
The collaboration recognizes that the consequences of drug use extend beyond addiction, impacting overall health, including oral health. While the specific oral health manifestations of drug use weren’t detailed in the provided materials, the agreement underscores the importance of dentists being equipped to recognize potential signs of substance use and provide appropriate guidance or referrals.
Drug-Free World emphasizes the need for factual information, stating, “Drug dealers have confessed that they would have said anything to get others to buy drugs. Don’t be fooled. “You need truthful information to avoid falling into drug addiction.” This highlights a core tenet of the foundation’s approach: empowering individuals with accurate knowledge to make informed decisions.
Expanding the Role of Dental Professionals
Traditionally, dental professionals have focused primarily on oral health. This agreement seeks to expand their role to include a broader public health perspective, positioning them as educators and advocates for preventative measures against drug use. This expanded role acknowledges the unique position dentists hold within the community – often serving as trusted healthcare providers with regular contact with patients.
The CCDPR and Drug-Free World aim to provide dentists with the resources and training necessary to effectively address substance use issues with their patients. This includes educational materials, information on recognizing signs of drug use, and guidance on how to initiate conversations with patients about these concerns.
Drug-Free World’s Broader Mission
The Drug-Free World Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to preventative education and disseminating objective information about the consequences of drug use. Their approach centers on empowering professionals and communities to make informed decisions. The foundation provides a curriculum designed to supplement existing drug education programs, offering teachers and specialists a resource to reach young people before drug dealers do.
Dr. Bernard Fialkoff, President of Drug-Free World – Americas Chapter, has been actively involved in promoting preventative drug education internationally. In , he signed a similar agreement with the National Drug Council (CND) of the Dominican Republic, demonstrating a commitment to expanding these initiatives throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.
Signatory Profiles
Dr. Yvette Rodríguez, President of the CCDPR, is described as a leader within the Puerto Rican dental profession, committed to continuing education, professional ethics, and oral health as a component of overall health. Her leadership focuses on strengthening dental practice standards and expanding the profession’s social impact.
Dr. Carlos Rigau, President-Elect of the CCDPR, is recognized for his commitment to clinical excellence, continuing education, and the social responsibility of the dental profession. He has actively supported initiatives integrating clinical practice with educational and community programs.
Dr. Bernard Fialkoff is a periodontal and dental implant surgeon with 45 years of experience, and a leader in preventative drug education. His work integrates clinical practice, continuing education, and social responsibility, positioning health professionals as key actors in promoting long-term well-being.
This collaboration between the CCDPR and Drug-Free World represents a proactive step towards addressing the complex issue of drug use through a comprehensive, community-based approach. By equipping dental professionals with the knowledge and resources to educate their patients, the partnership aims to contribute to a healthier and more resilient Puerto Rico.