Periodontal health is also important. If the supporting bone and gum tissue are not healthy, restoration of the tooth may not be prudent. Crowns and other restorations to replace missing teeth can then be done later. If necessary, temporary restorations may be placed in the meantime. You should be aware that as a former drug addict, your tolerance to local anesthetic and pain medications will probably be changed.
Drug addiction can cause liver dysfunction.
Since most medications used in dentistry undergo biotransformation in the liver, liver dysfunction can lead to decreased drug inactivation. In addition, drug addicts have a risk of heart valve damage and may need antibiotic prophylaxis prior to dental treatment. Also, as you may know, some pain medications, which might be needed for postoperative discomfort, are quite addictive. As a result, care should be taken with any pain medication you might require. If you are working with a drug abuse center or program, your dentist may wish to consult with a counselor or physician to determine the most effective medication that will not contribute to a relapse.