Meth Mouth

The use of methamphetamine has increased drastically over the past several years. Its long duration of action and easy availability make it the drug of choice for many Americans. Meth produces a profound euphoria in its users which can last for up to twelve hours as compared to 1 or 2 hours for crack cocaine. The less exciting effects of meth use include paranoia, hearing things, shortness of breath, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a decrease in learning ability.

As with many other diseases and systemic problems, many signs appear in the mouth. The rampant decay associated with methamphetamine use is attributed to the following: the acidic nature of the drug, the drug’s dry mouth, its propensity to cause cravings for high calorie carbonated beverages, tooth grinding and clenching and its long duration of action leading to extended periods of poor oral hygiene.

Decay commonly occurs on the smooth surfaces of the teeth and between the front teeth. The gums are inflamed and there is heavy plaque accumulations and pus around the teeth.

"Often, there is no hope of treating methamphetamine damaged teeth, leading to full mouth extractions" says Dr Robert Brandjord, president of the ADA. Many people, including dentists are unaware of the growing problem this drug represents for the people of this country.

Signs to watch for:

• Fidgety, nervous, or paranoid behavior
• Malnourished appearance
• Inability to sleep
• Black, extensive decay, initially around the gumline
• Absence of significant dental or gum pain
• Craving for high-calorie carbonated beverages