Effect of long-term addiction to heroin on oral tissues.

The oral health status of 36 long-term heroin addicts was measured using DMF, OHIS, and PI. Comparisons were made utilizing data from the National Center for Health Statistics. Age, sex, race, education, income, and geographic location were compared. The former addicts exhibited a significant increase in DMF, with significantly higher missing and decayed teeth, and fewer filled teeth. The periodontal condition of the former addict also showed health status. It would appear that long-term heroin addiction either contributes directly to lowered oral health status, or more likely, causes individuals to lead a life style which has ramifications to their oral health.