Pages: 87-101

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the knowledge and beliefs of Saudi and Kuwaiti dental students regarding oral manifestations associated with drug abuse. Drug abuse, including the use of methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and opioids, can cause severe oral health issues such as xerostomia, dental caries, periodontal disease, bruxism, and oral mucosal lesions. Prescription drugs can also contribute to oral health complications due to their impact on saliva production, increasing the risk of infections and caries. Previous studies indicate that dental students may have limited knowledge of drug-related oral health impacts, likely due to gaps in the curriculum and limited clinical experience with drug-dependent patients. In this study, 447 dental students from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait participated in a survey that assessed their knowledge of drug-related oral health issues, experiences with drug abuse cases, and perceived need for further education. Findings revealed significant differences between Saudi and Kuwaiti respondents in clinical exposure, with Saudi students more frequently treating patients with a history of drug abuse. Additionally, high rates of uncertainty were observed among respondents regarding the oral impacts of various drugs, with a majority expressing a desire for increased education on the topic. This study emphasizes the importance of incorporating comprehensive drug-abuse-related oral health education into the dental curriculum, enhancing future practitioners' ability to diagnose and manage substance-related oral health issues effectively.

Keywords: Drug abuse, Oral manifestations, Dental students, Perceptions

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