OVERVIEW OF ALCOHOLISM

Dental practitioners should gain an understanding of the effects of alcohol in both nonalcoholic patients (about a third of whom can be expected to show minor alcohol-related problems) and in the 10% to 25% of their patients who have such severe alcohol problems that they could be labeled alcoholic. Although alcoholism can be a loosely applied term, it is possible to use fairly rigorous criteria to identify the primary alcoholic and, with resulting insight, to outline the probable future course of problems. Alcoholism can be viewed as a disease with a natural history that is somewhat predictable. Its causes probably consist of a variety of social and psychological factors; evidence for a genetic contribution has been fairly established. Once the alcoholic is identified, dental problems should be treated, but referral to an agency for treatment should also be seriously considered. Such rehabilitation programs offer general support and helping mechanisms to aid the alcoholic to achieve improved functioning in life.