The drug methamphetamine contains various harsh chemicals such as sulfuric acid, ether and lye, that cause a variety of disturbing health effects. The most visible physical damage affects the face and mouth of the meth user. The Mayo Clinic notes that long-term meth users often show signs of "meth mouth," a cluster of symptoms ranging from tooth discoloration to serious dental decay. In addition to the damage caused by harmful ingredients, the long-term user may neglect dental hygiene, further worsening dental disorders.
Sores and Corrosion
Smoking methamphetamine causes heat and vapor to stay in the mouth and irritate sensitive skin there. The Meth Awareness and Prevention Project of South Dakota, or MAPPSD, notes that skin irritations tend to create sores in the mouth leading to infection. Corrosion of the gum line from poor hygiene in addition to the chemicals, affects tooth enamel and causes rotting. Snorting meth has the same impact due to the chemicals draining down to the throat.
Reduced Saliva Production
Saliva is important for buffering acidic substances in the mouth. Saliva acts as a neutralizer to protect the teeth. The Dental Health Network indicates that a condition called xerostomia, or dry mouth, decreases the pH level in the mouth causing an environment conducive to bacterial growth and infection. Methamphetamine use leads to this condition by drying out the salivary glands. Acidic substances and bacteria thrive in this dry environment causing tooth erosion, cavities or holes in the mouth.
Gum Disease and Tooth Decay
Methamphetamine use causes the vessels supplying blood to the mouth to shrink, thus reducing blood supply. Lack of proper blood supply causes the tissues to break down in a process leading to gum disease. Without a normal supply of blood to the teeth and gums, infections can set in. Tooth decay and cracked teeth are also a consequence of using this drug, according to the MAPPSD. Cracked teeth develop from the constant jaw grinding associated with methamphetamine use. The grinding is clinically termed bruxism, an unconscious urge to grind, clench or gnash the teeth.
References
- Meth Awareness and Prevention Project of South Dakota: Meth Mouth
- Office of National Drug Control Policy: Health Effects of Methamphetamine
- North Metro Task Force: Medical Aspects of Methamphetamine Use
- Mayo Clinic: Methamphetamine Abuse A Perfect Storm of Complications
- Dental Health Network: Saliva pH Factor
