Beyond the Surface: Addiction, Recovery, and Oral Health

In this episode of Oral Health Matters, host Dr. Karlynn Sievers is joined by Dr. Tonya Cook and Dr. Rebecca Bernstein to explore the connection between substance use and oral health. They break down how substances like tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, and methamphetamine impact the mouth, often accelerating decay through reduced saliva and other side effects—and discuss additional risks tied to stimulants, opioids, and other drugs. The conversation also highlights the broader challenges patients face, including disrupted self-care, stigma, and limited access to dental services, while emphasizing that integrating oral health into treatment can support better outcomes like employment and long-term recovery. The episode concludes with practical strategies providers can use to help mitigate damage, from fluoride treatments to simple daily habits. Oral Health Matters is produced by Association Briefings.