NCJ Number
220911
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 69 Issue: 5 Dated: October 2007 Pages: 54-56
Date Published
October 2007
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the consequences of methamphetamine use and other drug use on dental health.
Abstract
Individuals who have used methamphetamine for several days experience suppressed appetites and dry mouth, which decreases sugar amounts circulating in their blood, causing them to crave a liquid stimulant. Soda and sweetened tea are popular options. Over time, this causes serious dental problems for teeth that likely have not been brushed or flossed during the period of heavy drug use. The sugar and liquid provide a suitable medium for the buildup of bacterial plaque on the surface of the teeth, aided by the dryness of mouth. Tooth decay results, beginning at the neck of the tooth. The combined effects cause meth users to clench their teeth and grind them, sometimes resulting in teeth breaking off. Heroin and cocaine abusers also experience rampant tooth decay. Both heroin and cocaine produce a dry mouth similar to that caused by methamphetamine, and these drugs may also cause craving for sugar. Drug abusers of all types tend to avoid tooth brushes, dental floss, and the dentist. The dental needs of drug abusers are overwhelming the resources of many correctional dental clinics. Offenders with a high rate of tooth decay can be educated about dietary habits that encourage dental disease and how to change these habits. This includes information on reducing both the quantity and frequency of their consumption of sugary and starchy foods. The battle against dental disease in a correctional setting requires the help of the entire correctional team in educating, monitoring, and treating the dental consequences of behavioral habits associated with the physical effects of drug use. 1 figure