Most people know that meth does a number on the meth addict’s teeth. Here is everything you need to know about meth mouth.
When it comes to the drug problem, the opioid crisis has dominated the news in recent years. However, meth addition is also wreaking havoc on people’s well-being throughout the country.
Methamphetamine causes a number of side-effects, including insomnia, violent behavior, and hallucinations. Meth can also destroy the user’s teeth. This condition is called meth mouth.
This is a serious issue that goes beyond the occasional cavity. To give you a better idea of the dangers of meth on a person’s oral health, we’re going over five facts about meth mouth.
1. Meth Decreases Saliva
One of the reasons we produce saliva is to help defend our teeth and gums from harmful acids and bacteria. When a person consumes meth, they experience a decrease in the production of saliva.
This leaves the user’s teeth vulnerable to decay. After prolonged use, an addict can develop serious cavities and gum disease.
Meth also shrinks blood vessels. This results in a reduction of blood supply to the mouth, which is harmful to teeth and gums.
2. Extraction is the Only Cure
After an addict sustains substantial damage to their teeth, there’s nothing they can do to reverse the effects. Even a dentist can’t save the damaged teeth.
In this case, the only option is to have a full extraction performed. Then, a dentist can add implants where the teeth used to be.
This is why addicts need to seek aggressive drug treatment. Read about NAD IV at BrainSpark for information on this innovative technique.
3. Meth Users Often Crave Sugar
Another reason addicts develop tooth decay is due to sugar consumption. Meth causes many users to crave sugary foods and beverages.
If a user consumes things like candy and soda while already experiencing a reduction of saliva, damage to their teeth will escalate. This happens because the enamel protecting their teeth is now vulnerable or missing altogether.
4. Meth Contains Acidic Compounds
The ingredients used to produce methamphetamine are shocking. They include things like antifreeze, battery acid, and hydrochloric acid.
These materials can cause significant damage to a person’s teeth and gums. The damage is even worse when a person has already sustained decay due to meth use.
Even if an addict regularly brushes their teeth, they’re still at risk of damage.
5. Clenching and Grinding Add to the Problem
Methamphetamine is a long-lasting stimulant. It has a tendency to cause anxiety, agitation, and paranoia in users.
These mental conditions can lead to a user grinding their teeth or clenching their jaw while under the influence. Both of these habits cause structural damage to teeth and can aid in the destruction of enamel.
Prevent Meth Mouth By Seeking Help Now
The only way an addict can prevent meth mouth is to stop using the drug immediately. If you or a loved has become addicted to methamphetamine, call a substance abuse treatment center for help today.
Keep these five facts in mind and know how to spot the symptoms before the problem gets out of control.
For information on drug and illness rehabilitation, check out our blog today.
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