Many kinds of drugs are known to be detrimental to your oral health. Most common among them are tobacco and alcohol. But, did you know that illegal drugs can be equally or even more damaging? Here’s how…
Marijuana
As reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, heavy marijuana smokers are seven times as likely to get periodontal (gum) disease than non-smokers. The numbers are practically the same for tobacco smokers.
Methamphetamine
Meth causes the most serious tooth decay among its users. In fact, “meth mouth” is a common term that describes its destructive oral focus.
What is the reason for meth’s harmful specificity? It is incredibly acidic. The acid wears away the enamel of the tooth. Also, those who use meth tend to clench their jaws and grind their teeth due to the drug’s effect upon them. This also is problematic for gum disease and tooth loss. Generally, meth users also have poor eating habits and dental hygiene as well. Sugars from soft drinks and starches contribute greatly to tooth decay when bad oral hygiene is also in the mix.
Other Illegal Drugs
Clearly, many types of illegal drugs can cause similar dental dilemmas. Ecstasy also wears down teeth and ruins enamel as its users clench and grind due to the euphoric high. Chronic dry mouth is another side-effect that goes hand in hand with many drugs known to dehydrate the body. Avoid all of these problems by simply saying no to illegal drugs.
If you have questions about drugs and dental health, call Dr. Steven A. Beuligmann for more information. Please contact Steven A. Beuligmann, DDS Inc to make an appointment at: 760.729.5964, or come by our office in Carlsbad, California.