About this topic
Meth mouth is a group of signs that often go along with taking the drug Crystal Methamphetamine or meth. When you use meth over a period of time, you can have severe dental problems. ‚
General
Taking meth can cause harm to all of your body. It is easy to see the effects of meth on your mouth and teeth. Meth causes you to: ‚
- Make less saliva. Your saliva or spit helps protect your teeth from germs in your mouth. It also helps protect your teeth from acids in the foods you eat and drink.
- Have poor blood flow to your teeth and gums. This can lead to gum disease and infections around your teeth.
- Grind or clench your teeth. You wear away the enamel that protects your teeth. You may also get cracked teeth or sores in your mouth from the grinding and clenching.
- Be very thirsty. While taking meth, you may also crave sugar and turn to drinks like soda or beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol) instead of water.
- Forget to care for your teeth. Germs build up in your mouth when you do not brush and floss regularly.
- Absorb chemicals in the drug which damages your teeths protective coating.
What will the results be?
Your teeth may have areas where they are black, stained, and rotting. Your teeth may seem to crumble and fall apart. Your teeth may need to be pulled out. You may have pain in your teeth and gums. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
It will be important for you to stop using meth. The drug will continue to harm your teeth and your body. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor or dentist may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain
- Fight an infection
What changes to diet are needed?
Drinking more water is important. Try to drink at least 6 to 8 glasses each day. ‚
Will there be any other care needed?
You will likely need help fighting an addiction if you have been using meth for some time. Talk to a person you trust, your doctor, or dentist to help you get the care you need to stop using drugs. ‚
What problems could happen?
Your teeth may: ‚
- Need fillings
- Break off
- Need to be removed
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
Do not use illegal drugs like meth. ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
- You notice stains or black spots on your teeth
- You are using drugs and want help quitting
- You have tooth pain
Where can I learn more?
American Dental Association ‚
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/m/meth-mouth ‚
Meth Project ‚
http://www.methproject.org/answers/what-is-meth-mouth.html#The-Perfect-Storm ‚
Mississippi State Department of Health ‚
http://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/23,3686,266,291.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚