For most drug users, dental problems are a common thing. The meth users face some problems and ailments related to some tissues of their mouth and teeth. This is because of the ingredients meth is made of and the process with which they are consuming the drug.

Meth mouth is a term used to refer to tooth decay caused by heavy doses of methamphetamine. As per the American Dental Association, meth mouth is caused by combining various drugs that brings certain psychological and physiological modifications. This results in dry mouth or xerostomia and poor oral hygiene situations. These also lead to a high consumption of calories and an urge for carbonated beverages and tooth clenching and grinding. People abusing meth at a large amount shows symptoms of decay of mouth and teeth.

It is difficult to recognize moth decay caused from methamphetamine consumption and a normal case of poor oral hygiene.  Dentists are asked to learn more about the symptoms of decay and the nature of damage meth causes.

The typical characteristics found are listed below –

•    A cracked Teeth Structure – Teeth gets clinched and grinded after prolonged use of meth. This often causes the teeth to show cracks and wears out over time.

•    Xerostomia- This is also known as dry mouth. Production of saliva in the mouth is reduced due to heavy consumption of methamphetamine. Hence, a lack of saliva production causes an increase of decay of tooth especially at the gumline. Additional problem is causes when a meth user consumes tobacco or soft drinks on regular basis.

•    Oral Hygiene – People often neglect taking proper oral care. This is most common attitude of meth users. Hence, they often have to sleep with their mouth open because of dryness caused by prolonged meth consumption.

•    Gum Diseases – The gum and the teeth requires blood to stay healthy but meth shrinks up the vessels that provide blood to our mouth. Hence this causes breakdown of tissues and they die.