Dental Caries and Oral Health Status of Psychoactive Substance Abusers

Substance-abuse disorders are universally associated with comorbid illness. Tobacco is a widely abused substance across the globe and presents a critical public health problem. The precise correlation between tobacco use and dental caries remains unclear. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the correlation between tobacco use and dental caries.

Based on selection criteria, a total of 270 (age 20-50 years) participants were included in the study, and were categorized as group A (n = 135), consisting of tobacco users, and group B (n = 135), comprising healthy controls (non-users). The Decayed, Missing, and Filled index (DMFT) was used to measure caries status. The Simplified Oral Hygiene index was used to evaluate oral health.

The tobacco group reported the use of cigarettes; smokeless tobacco in indigenous forms, such as gutka (areca nut, tobacco, and slaked lime), betel nut chewing; and a combination. Individuals with tobacco habits had a higher prevalence of dental caries (Mean DMFT 4.73 ± 4.32) compared to the non-habit group (Mean DMFT 3.17 ± 3.11 (p = 0.001). The Oral Hygiene index was significantly higher (indicating bad/poor oral hygiene) in tobacco abusers than those of non-users (p = 0.0001). Duration and frequency of tobacco use were correlated with the levels of moderate and severe caries (p = 0.001).

Psychoactive substance abuse, such as smoking/smokeless tobacco consumption, is associated with higher prevalence of dental caries.