Meth and Dental Disease

One of the most striking health effects of meth addiction is the change in the physical appearance of meth users. An emaciated look and rampant dental disease manifesting as decayed, discolored and broken down teeth and inflamed gums are associated with meth use. In a matter of time healthy teeth turn a grayish-brown, develop extensive decay, and reach a state of such decay that causes them to be unsalvageable and require extraction.

Many media reports have provided details about a distinctive pattern of unchecked tooth decay among meth users. Described variously as blackened, stained, rotting, or crumbling teeth, the association of this pattern of dental disease with meth addiction has earned it the term "meth mouth."

Meth limits saliva production

The presence of saliva in the mouth inhibits bacterial growth, gum disease and tooth decay. For meth users, the wide spread decay at the gum line so weakens the teeth that crowns frequently snap off, leading to generalized infection of the mouth. Attempts at dental reconstruction for these clients are vastly complicated by factors such as the extreme state of disrepair of the teeth by the time the user seeks dental care.

Causes of Meth Mouth

While under the influence of meth, users frequently grind their teeth. In addition, meth addicted individuals often eat large quantities of junk food and soft drinks. All of these factors, plus poor dental hygiene practices, result in the severe dental disease seen in meth users. When methamphetamine users enter drug treatment centers, they frequently have a tremendous array of problems that all require urgent attention. Taking care of dental problems often seems like a low priority and is thus often ignored. The severity of the dental disease results in a very painful condition. However, active users are unaware of the dental pain that results from the meth, because the drug causes numbing of the mouth and dulling of the pain.

Those addicted to crystal meth, heroin, cocaine and other illicit drugs need the care of the professional staff of drug treatment centers to help them get rid of their respective addictions before the physical or mental toll becomes irreversible.

This pain can affect the meth user's ability to eat and greatly impact sleep and performance at work. As recovery continues and clients become more involved in work and social situations, they can be very self-conscious and embarrassed about the appearance of their teeth.