It can take a few months or a few years, but it’s almost a sure thing that meth will damage your teeth.
If you’re lucky, that could mean just a few fillings or crowns. But, at its worst, meth mouth results in decaying teeth and an eventual need for expensive dental implants or even dentures.
Meth mouth usually starts with cavities and swollen gums. How quickly it progresses depends on a number of factors, including the condition of your teeth before you started using and how you take care of your teeth (or don’t) while you are using.
Why Does Meth Ruin Your Teeth?
Meth abuse causes a decrease in the saliva that would normally prevent acids from eating away at tooth enamel. In addition, meth can increase cravings for sugary drinks and foods, which leads to tooth decay.
Why Does Your Jaw Clench When You Use Meth?
Meth use can result in anxiety and paranoia that leads to jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Meth users often experience muscle spasms or uncontrollable movements that lead to tightness in the jaw.
Does Meth Make You Lose Your Appetite?
Meth can suppress the appetite, leading to a deficiency in the nutrients needed to support healthy teeth and bones. Because meth users often neglect good dental hygiene, including brushing and flossing and regular dental check-ups, teeth can become damaged, making it more painful to eat.
Meth harms your teeth, but how long does it stay in your system?
Meth affects more than just your teeth. It's important to know how long Meth stays in your system once you take it.
Can You Avoid Meth Mouth?
It’s probably the last thing you feel like doing, but getting a dental check up can prevent small issues from becoming big problems. A filling, for example, costs a couple hundred dollars to fix. A root canal costs more than a thousand dollars. The the only sure way to prevent meth mouth is to stop using meth.
How Do I Take Care of My Teeth If I Use Meth?
Taking care of your teeth doesn’t have to be hard – you can start by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and using an alcohol-free mouthwash. Alcohol will only dry the mouth out more.
Chewing sugar-free gum can help boost saliva. Drinking plenty of water is also a good idea.
Lastly, wearing a retainer will stop you from grinding your teeth at night, which you may not even be aware that you’re doing. They can be purchased at most drugstores.
Get Help for Meth Addiction at The Raleigh House
Meth can take over your life in a way that you never would have thought possible. As hard as it may be to imagine, there is a way to break free from the hold it has on you—and to live an interesting, happy and full life.
At The Raleigh House, we tackle not only the physical aspect of addiction, but also the mental, emotional, spiritual and social effects. Contact us today to learn more about the crystal meth addiction treatment program at The Raleigh House.
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