Meth user’s teeth become blackened, stained, rotted and crumble or fall apart at the gum line. That’s why meth damaged teeth often cannot be saved and must be extracted or removed, even among young or short-term users.
The large amount of tooth decay is due to meth’s acid nature and the fact that it causes dry mouth, which eliminates the mouth’s protective saliva. Users crave sugary soda and grind or clench their teeth. The focus on getting high causes users to stop taking care of themselves, including not brushing their teeth.
Categories:
Clinical Practice, Conditions and Issues, Oral Health