What's the deal? the importance of asking about recreational drug use in dental settings

Abstract

This article looks at the dental implications of the most commonly abused recreational drugs in the UK. It emphasizes the need for clinicians to have honest discussions with their patients and obtain this often overlooked piece of information. We discuss not only the oral manifestations and health implications of various recreational drugs, but also the impacts their use may have on a range of dental treatment. Furthermore, tips are given on how to obtain this often sensitive information. CPD/Clinical Relevance: The use of recreational drugs has oral health implications and may impact on a range of dental treatment.