Sammanfattning
Norway has a substantial problem with heroin addiction and many overdose victims compared
to other countries. However, there is little knowledge about drug abusers. The aim of this study was
therefore to examine dental status, oral health habits and views on dental health in heroin-injecting
addicts in Oslo. Sixty active drug abusers from low-threshold facilities in Oslo were interviewed and
a simple oral examination was performed. On average it was 4.6 years since the last dental visit. 55
% of the participants brushed their teeth daily. Pain was the most common reason for seeking dental
treatment, and was related to increased drug use. Approximately 60 % of the participants complained
of a dry mouth. Their first heroin injection was at 23 years of age. They were a heterogeneous group
and dental status varied from good to very poor: 43 % had ?20 functional teeth and 16 % had no
functional teeth. Participants had an average of 15.2 functional teeth, 11.3 missing teeth, 0.3 fractured
or carious teeth and 1.3 tooth roots. Various theories about drug abuse and dental health were
widespread. Many had negative experiences in communication with dental health personnel. They
were often not satisfied with suggested dental treatment choices. The results indicated that good
communication is important in order to provide an individualized approach to dental treatment.
Furthermore, interdisciplinary collaboration is necessary for understanding the relationship between
drug addiction, dental habits and health, and possible treatment alternatives.