Oral Health Behavior and Treatment Needs among Drug Addicts and Controls in Amritsar District: A Case-controlled Study

BACKGROUND: Substance and drug abuse is associated with severe psychosocial problems, violence and health complications. AIMS: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the oral hygiene status and sugar eating patterns among drug addicts with their age, gender and socio-economic status matched controls. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: The present study comprised of two groups-Group A comprised of 100 drug addicts and Group B included 100 controls. The study sample were interviewed and subjected to a comprehensive intra-oral examination. METHODS AND MATERIAL: Standardized methods of evaluation were performed using mouth mirror, dental probe, explorer and WHO probe. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The data was subjected to statistical analysis using Chi Square test and student t-test. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: CPITN index revealed bleeding in 56% addicts and calculus in 20% addicts. The mean DMFT of group A was 5.71 as compared to 2.45 in group B. The frequency of sugar consumption was found to be high in addicts as compared to the controls. Significant P values (< 0.001) of DMFT index, periodontal status and frequency of sugar consumption were obtained on statistical analysis. The caries status was found to be poor in addicts, but the periodontal treatment needs were similar for both group A and B. Oral health promotion should be undertaken in drug rehabilitation centers for overall success of withdrawl treatment.