[The condition of teeth and the need for teeth treatment in drug addicts]

The condition of teeth was studied in 30 drug addicts aged 21-34 years (drug addiction duration 3-16 years) comparing the results with those obtained in a similar group of 30 age-matched subjects without drug addiction. The needs for stomatological treatment were determined also. It was found that drug addicts had twice the number of teeth with active caries and missing teeth, and four times less filled teeth as compared with controls. Most drug addicts had lost 45-100% chewing ability, and loss of teeth included all anatomical groups. The mean number of teeth requiring treatment per one addict was 8, and 2.8 teeth required removal. Only 3 addicts were not in need of prosthetic treatment, the remaining ones (90%) should have been given permanent of removable replacements (including complete denture). Drug addiction was found to produce intensification of caries and mutilation of the stomatognathic system.