Abusing drugs and/or alcohol has its side effects, which are not much to be desired, physically, emotionally and/or mentally. Although, with respects to oral health, drug and alcohol abuse can take quite the toll. The affects of addiction can not only cause visual deterioration of the mouth and its workings, but may also cause further illness and/or diseases within the body.

Research was conducted on a group of individuals that were drug and/or alcohol addicts. Some of the drugs that the individuals were addicted to, included that of cocaine, marijuana, meth and opium. When comparing their oral health to that of their lives prior to their addiction, the results were devastating. Most all participants had lost teeth, or were on the verge of severe infections. While others were suffering from heart issues, directly relating to the poor condition of the health of their mouth.

Of all individuals tested, those that were addicted to meth suffered the worst deterioration of all. The ingredients in manufactured meth may include but are not limited to acids, lithium, ether and lye. All of which can be detrimental to the oral, and overall health of a meth user. Some of the common oral health issues that arise with the abuse of meth may include but are not limited to:

Gum Disease:

When blood vessels break down or are blocked by using meth, the teeth and gums lack the blood that they need to clean themselves efficiently. This can result in tooth decay, teeth falling out, rotting gums and/or heart illness.

Drying of the Mouth:

When abusing meth and/or alcohol, less saliva is produced within the mouth. Blockages of the salivary glands are also commonly evident. As saliva is a natural neutralizer for acidic foods such as soda, citrus and plaque – when there is less of it, the mouth suffers. Teeth begin to break down, and form cavities. It is also often the case, that if not treated, or if the abuse of meth or alcohol does not cease, an individual may lose their teeth over time.

Cracked or Worn Teeth:

It has been reported that over eighty percent of meth users will continually grind their teeth, in and out of sleep. With this consistent clenching and grinding, the teeth begin to wear down. Some meth abusers have even experienced cracks in their teeth from this behavior.

Although the affects that drugs and/or alcohol have on the mouth are often seen, many are unclear as to what the direct causes are. If you or someone you know is suffering from an unhealthy drug or alcohol addiction, contact a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center at earliest convenience. Serious oral health issues can develop into even more severe illnesses and diseases throughout the body. It’s never too late to improve the health of a friend, family member, or yourself, today.