The Impact of Heavy Alcohol Use on Saliva and Oral Health

Background: People with alcohol use disorder (AUD) have a higher rate of dental and gum disease. Poor oral health can increase the risk of other diseases, such as diabetes and stroke. Researchers want to learn more about how to identify developing inflammation in the mouth. They also want to know how improved oral health education and behaviors can affect inflammation in people with AUD. Objective: This study has 2 goals: (1) to test the usefulness of a new questionnaire about oral health and (2) to learn more about how oral health behaviors affect inflammation in people with AUD. Eligibility: People aged 18 years and older who are staying on an inpatient unit being treated for AUD. Healthy volunteers are also needed. Design: The study is divided into 2 parts: People will participate in either one part or the other. In part 1, participants will have 1 visit. They will have a physical exam. They will answer 18 questions for a survey about how they care for their teeth. In part 2, participants with AUD will have a physical exam. They will provide saliva and blood samples. They will have a dental exam with X-rays. They will fill out questionnaires about their health, mental health, social habits, diet, and sleep. They will keep a diary of their nicotine use for 4 weeks while inpatient. Healthy volunteers will have 1 visit. They will have a physical exam and provide blood and saliva samples. They will have a dental exam with X-rays. They will fill out questionnaires.