Substance abuse is unfortunately more common than many people realise. Alcohol is a common problem affecting many age groups. The heaviest drinkers are adults aged 45 to 64, and within this group, 37 percent of men and 19 percent of women are consuming more than the recommended maximum of 14 units a week.[1] In the UK, in 2021, 13.3 percent of people aged 18 and over smoked cigarettes, which is around 6.6 million people.[2] Meanwhile, around one in 11 adults aged 16 to 59 (approximately 3 million people) reported using illegal drugs in 2022.[3]
This can also have implications for the workplace. Shockingly, as many as one in five working people could have a problem with alcohol or drugs.[4] Research also shows that between 3 percent and 5 percent of all work absences are caused by alcohol consumption.[5] This can impact workplace productivity and can adversely affect employees’ wellbeing, including oral health.
The negative impact that smoking, alcohol and substance abuse can have on your overall health is widely known. The damage that can be done to oral health specifically, and the consequences this can have on the body, are less well-known.
Here’s how substance abuse can impact your employees’ oral health:
- Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Alcohol, some medications, and illegal drugs (like methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana) can reduce the flow of saliva and cause dry mouth (xerostomia). Saliva helps reduce build-up of bacteria, and a dry mouth can therefore lead to higher levels of bacteria and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.[6] - Teeth grinding (Bruxism)
Bruxism, or clenching of the teeth, is a condition that can arise from the use of illegal stimulant drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, and ecstasy. Repetitive clenching or grinding can weaken the teeth, causing breaks and jaw pain.[7] - Acidic damage and tooth decay
Alcoholic drinks often have high levels of sugar and acidity in them which can be very harmful to your employees’ teeth. Regular consumption of alcohol can therefore increase the risk of tooth erosion. Added to this, there are high levels of acidity in vomit which can damage tooth enamel.[8] - Mouth sores and gum disease
Substances like cocaine can cause mouth sores and infections, particularly if the substance is rubbed on the gums. Lesions can make eating and speaking uncomfortable, and long-term use can also lead to severe tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss.[9] - Increased risk of oral cancer
Smoking and drinking alcohol could increase your employees’ risk of developing mouth cancer. Some research suggests that around 17 out of 100 types of mouth cancer in the UK are caused by smoking. Meanwhile, drinking alcohol is reported to cause around 35 out of 100 types. Smoking and drinking together further increases the risk of mouth cancer.[10]
Thankfully, there are things you can do as an employer to help lessen the impact and protect your employees’ oral health. Taking positive action could also help improve their self-esteem and reduce pain.
Here are some simple steps you can take:
- Offer dental insurance: Providing dental insurance as part of your employee benefits package can ensure dental care is accessible and affordable. This can encourage employees to visit the dentist regularly.
- Share resources on dental anxiety: Many people feel anxious about visiting the dentist, especially if they are experiencing problems with their oral health. Sharing resources like Bupa’s dental anxiety guide can help support employees and make the experience more comfortable.
- Help employees quit smoking: Smoking tobacco can discolour teeth, increase the risk of gum disease, and raise the risk of mouth cancer. Supporting employees in quitting smoking can help them maintain a healthier smile for life.
- Share resources on drinking alcohol responsibly: Reducing alcohol intake can improve oral health and reduce the risk of cavities, tooth decay, and mouth cancer. Encourage employees to be mindful of their alcohol consumption.
Understanding the impacts of addiction on oral health can be important for the workplace. By taking proactive steps to support your employees, you can help them maintain their oral health and overall wellbeing, leading to a healthier, more productive workplace.
Find out what else you can do to help your employees protect their smile and overcome addiction.
[1] Addiction | Business | Health Horizons | Bupa UK
[2] Adult smoking habits in the UK – Office for National Statistics
[3] Addiction | Business | Health Horizons | Bupa UK
[4] https://www.bupa.co.uk/business/health-horizons/workplace-addiction
[5] https://alcoholchange.org.uk/alcohol-facts/fact-sheets/alcohol-in-the-workplace
[6] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dry-mouth/
[8] https://www.dentalhealth.org/dental-erosion
[9] https://rehabsuk.com/blog/the-effects-of-cocaine-on-nasal-and-oral-health/
[10] Risks And Causes Of Mouth And Oropharyngeal Cancer | Cancer Research UK
