Final answer:
Patients at risk for oral problems include drug addicts, healthcare professionals like phlebotomists and dentists, immunocompromised individuals, smokers, and those with specific dietary restrictions. Infections like oral thrush and trench mouth are more prevalent among these at-risk groups. Smoking and nutritional deficiencies can lead to a range of oral health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Several groups of patients at risk for oral problems include those with infections, substance abuse issues, specific dietary restrictions, or certain health conditions. For example, drug addicts and healthcare professionals such as phlebotomists are at increased risk due to higher chances of needle sticks, which can introduce harmful pathogens into the mouth. Dentists are also at higher risk because of their frequent exposure to various oral infections.
Conditions like oral thrush, a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, are more likely in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as HIV patients. Smoking is another significant factor associated with oral health issues. It can lead to oral problems like periodontitis (gum disease), tooth loss, teeth staining, and halitosis (bad breath). Nutritional choices can also influence oral health. Vegetarians, vegans, and people avoiding certain food groups may face oral health challenges due to the absence of specific nutrients, which can manifest as epithelial problems like cracks in the corners of the mouth, fatigue, slowed growth, digestive and light sensitivity issues. Finally, severe periodontitis or trench mouth can occur in patients with AIDS or those with weakened immune systems, necessitating aggressive treatment including antibiotics and dental care.