On Suboxone, in EXCRUCIATING PAIN, Dentist doesn't know what suboxone is.

I've been on Suboxone for 3-1/2 years for opiate dependence.  I was supposed to be weaned after four months (per my doctor).  In the past year, I've had major tooth decay. I have always taken very good care of my teeth and people even asked me if they were real.  I HAD a very nice smile.  I am so devastated because I am now facing losing 4-6 teeth.  I told my doctor that I am going to be needing oral surgery and he said "the dentist should know about the suboxone."  Well...the dentist never heard of it.  I had ONE wisdom tooth pulled years ago and was very sick after the extraction (fever of 103, vomiting....just very, very sick) and in extreme pain.  I have two teeth that are literally throbbing. The pain is so bad. I went to a new doctor and he said "the suboxone should help with the pain."  Well, it doesn't.  I spoke to someone very knowledgeable about opiates and I was told that opiates, over time, prevent your body from absorbing calcium, leading to breakdown of enamel and tooth decay.  I am limited with my insurance and I discovered today that the root canals won't be covered because there is no medical history documented.  I am on medicaid and they need a reason for the root canals.  The REASON is the suboxone.  What do I do for the pain?  I can't get a straight answer from any doctor.  I am upset because these doctors are prescribing medications they know nothing about and I am paying the price....PHYSICALLY AND FINANCIALLY.  I need advice as to who I should see about my teeth and are there dentists that KNOW what suboxone is?   Desperate and time is running out.  Thanks.

[abernick00]

I have been on suboxone, 8 mg 3 times a day for 4 years...   my teeth are now falling apart after having the most amazing teeth and always getting compliments from my dentist... now im embarrassed to go.      i have had two teeth completely fall apart, all the way down to the root.   i have multiple cavities, and i really dont know what to do??    if my insurance says it is "cosmetic", like the hole in my front tooth, then they just pull it???   i am so mad at myself for going on this medication, even though, i am not a street addict that did heroin or buy drugs from friends.... i have a severe arthritis condition and i wanted to get off of the narcotic meds, and this was my option so i wouldnt get sick.     4 years later, here i am, losing teeth because of this medication...      I have JUST stopped as of a week ago, and the withdrawal was minimal.       If you are thinking of getting on this med, do it for a VERY short term, then ween off!!!!   Teeth do NOT grow back.     trust me, please....  

[Butterflyangel46]

I've been doing a lot of research on suboxone. I've heard and have experienced horrible, horrible withdrawals. My doctor cut my off abruptly.
Also, I've read many posts about people complaining about tooth problems since they started suboxone.  One woman wrote a long post on subsux.com (great site) and stated "suboxone is meth for your mouth"  I had to have emergency oral surgery two weeks ago and had two teeth extracted.  I am also facing losing about four more teeth.  They are literally crumbling quote from my dentist.  I try to explain that it's the suboxone, but they don't listen.  My insurance does not even cover root canals or crowns,. Their answer is to pull the teeth.
I've also read a NUMBER of posts where people are seeking a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer of suboxone...for tooth decay, their declaration that the withdrawal is easy (it's not) and many other claims about the drug.  I've done some research as far as depression and suboxone and was actually considering doing a "rapid detox". However, this procedure is extremely dangerous and you wake up with extreme cravings for the drug.  The physical addiction is gone, however the psychological issues that come afterward are horrific.  A couple of people claimed they attempted suicide. A couple of peple, including myself experience incessant crying and extreme depression....which does not go away in a day or two.
My biggest gripe is what this horrible drug has done to my teeth.  Check out subsux.com.  There is someone there who posted about tooth decay and mentioned "anyone down for a class action lawsuit?"  I responded yes, of course.  I am going to contact a lawyer as this drug has RUINED my teeth and my once decent life.