Substance abuse linked to poor oral health
A new review has been recently published in Addiction, a scientific journal, that has uncovered a link between substance abuse, periodontal disease and rapid tooth decay. Those with substance use disorders are also less likely to receive dental care. As the number of drug users is soaring by around three million each year, this problem is only going to get worse.
Drug use has a direct impact on dental health due to its affects on the mouth, drying it out and encouraging teeth clenching and grinding. Cocaine application to teeth and gums also encourages chemical erosion. The lifestyle of drug users isn’t very healthy either, usually including a high sugar diet, poor oral hygiene, lack of regular check-ups and malnutrition. Dentists are further compromised during procedures by frequent users’ tolerance to anaesthetics and painkillers.
Dental health has a direct link to quality of life and overall well being. Chronic inflammation and bacteraemia, the infiltration of the blood by bacteria caused by bad dental hygiene, increase the risks of coronary heart disease, stroke, respiratory issues and diabetes.
To minimise risk, dentists should screen patients for substance abuse and check to see if they are suffering from any dental or periodontal diseases uncommon in that patient’s age group. If the patient is likely to be taking drugs, dentists should bear in mind the issue of consent should the patient be under the influence and intoxicated, as well as the fact they may be resistant to painkillers. After treatment they should consider sugar-free preparations when prescribing methadone, and remind patients that their oral health may suffer due to increased sugar cravings and dry mouth.
The recent review echoes findings of increased decay and periodontal disease in people with severe mental illnesses, eating disorders and alcoholism in comparison to the general populace.
