Among the many symptoms of meth abuse is “meth mouth,” a severe form of tooth decay that is often fixed only by pulling the affected teeth.
According to the American Dental Association ADA, heavy meth use probably causes meth mouth in a variety of ways:
- Dry mouth (hyposalivation): Meth dries up the salivary glands, depleting the saliva needed to neutralize acidic substances in the mouth. These acids can eat away tooth enamel and lead to cavities.
- Oral-hygiene neglect: When meth users are high, which they can be for days at a time, they often skip brushing, flossing, and rinsing altogether.
- Sugary drinks: Meth users tend to crave sugary drinks to quench their drug-induced thirst, and such drinks are great at causing tooth decay.
- Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism): Meth use induces teeth clenching and grinding, which leads to cracks and wear in the enamel.
- The ADA also notes that some reports have speculated that the acidic nature of meth may also damage teeth.