Chronic alcoholism is a medico-social problem. It is a challenge in planning correct and structured management. This paper aims to give a concise information of the effect of chronic alcoholism to the dentist. A review of psychiatric and dental literature covering the aetiology, prevalence, complications is presented. Medical and dental aspects, both are described in brief to understand the pathophysiology better, as both are inseparable. It is important for the dental practitioner to be aware of the impact of this condition on patients as he or she may be in an ideal position to spot the alcoholic before a medical consultation is made.