Dentistry and the alcoholic patient

Alcoholic dental patients are commonly encountered by the practicing dentist. This chapter was written to help the practitioner understand the nature of this highly complex, progressive illness and how to recognize these patients prior to treatment. Dental personnel must understand how alcoholism affects the individual systemically and how this serious condition affects routine dental care. Oral problems commonly experienced by these patients were discussed, with suggestions being given on how to adjust treatment modalities. Furthermore, the dentist must become acutely aware that alcoholism is a problem suffered by many fellow dental professionals as well.