By Today in Fort Smith Staff
Suboxone, a medication widely used to treat opioid addiction, has been hailed as a life-saving treatment for those struggling to break free from the grip of addiction. However, a growing number of patients in Fort Smith and across the nation are reporting an alarming side effect: severe tooth decay and tooth loss.
This issue is raising concerns among medical professionals and patients alike, sparking a debate about the long-term effects of Suboxone on dental health and the importance of comprehensive care for those in recovery.
Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, designed to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings in people recovering from opioid dependence. For many, it has been a critical component of their journey to sobriety.
The medication works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids like heroin and prescription painkillers target, effectively blunting withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings without producing the same euphoric high.
However, while Suboxone has helped many people regain control of their lives, there are growing concerns about its potential side effects, particularly regarding dental health.
Several Fort Smith residents who are using or have used Suboxone report significant dental issues that they believe are related to their treatment. Jane Doe (name changed for privacy), a 34-year-old recovering addict, shared her experience with us.
“Suboxone saved my life, no doubt about it,” Jane said. “But after a few years, I started noticing my teeth were getting brittle, and I was having severe dental pain. I went to the dentist, and they told me I had multiple cavities and needed several teeth extracted. I wasn’t prepared for this.”
Jane is not alone. Numerous posts on online recovery forums and social media platforms echo similar stories, with patients describing a range of dental issues, from mild decay to complete tooth loss. Some users even report losing teeth despite maintaining good oral hygiene practices.
Dental professionals and addiction specialists are divided on the exact cause of the dental problems associated with Suboxone use.
Some dentists argue that the medication’s composition, specifically its acidic nature and the way it is administered, can contribute to tooth decay.
Suboxone is typically taken as a film or tablet that dissolves under the tongue, which means the mouth is exposed to the medication’s ingredients for a prolonged period. This extended exposure can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth, a condition that significantly increases the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
“Saliva is crucial for neutralizing acids and washing away food particles and bacteria,” explains Dr. Michael Adams, a Fort Smith-based dentist. “When patients are on medications that dry out their mouth, like Suboxone, it creates an environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to rapid tooth decay.”
Other experts suggest that the dental issues may not be directly caused by Suboxone itself but could result from a combination of factors, including poor oral hygiene habits, pre-existing dental problems, or a diet high in sugar and acidic foods—common among those who are in recovery and may experience cravings.
The debate over Suboxone’s potential link to tooth loss underscores a broader issue within the addiction recovery community: the need for comprehensive, holistic care that addresses not just the addiction but the overall health of the individual.
Dr. Sarah Thompson, an addiction specialist, emphasizes the importance of integrating dental care into addiction treatment programs. “When we treat addiction, we’re treating the whole person, not just their dependence on a substance,” she says. ““That means considering all aspects of their health, including dental care. We need to ensure that patients have access to dental check-ups, proper hygiene education, and preventive care to avoid these issues.”
Experts say underlying problems with the treatment of drug addiction with the use of the drug can also lead to gum deterioration and problems with ill-fitting dentures.. literally making a person "lose their smile" for life.
"We see it all the time," said one dental hygienist. "People spend hundreds and even thousands of dollars for dentures and end up wearing them rarely if at all. I addition to appearance issues, it leads to associated health risks."
As the conversation around Suboxone and dental health continues, experts recommend several steps for patients to protect their teeth while on the medication:
Maintain Regular Dental Visits: Regular check-ups can help catch dental issues early before they become severe.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash can help reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help counteract dry mouth.
Consider Dental Products for Dry Mouth: There are specific products, such as mouthwashes and lozenges, designed to combat dry mouth and protect teeth.
Discuss Concerns with Healthcare Providers: Patients should feel empowered to discuss any concerns with their doctors, including potential side effects of their medications.
For those in the Fort Smith recovery community, Suboxone remains a vital tool in the fight against opioid addiction. However, as awareness of its potential side effects grows, so does the understanding that successful recovery requires more than just medication—it requires a commitment to overall health and well-being.
