The Causes of Meth Mouth

Methamphetamine, or meth, is an extremely potent and addictive stimulant drug. While producing a feeling of euphoria in the user, the drug does serious damage to the body. So-called "meth mouth"--rampant deterioration of the teeth--constitutes one of the common manifestations of meth abuse. Scientists still do not fully understand the true cause of meth mouth, but most experts agree that a combination of factors contribute to the condition:

Chemicals

• Most meth is "homemade" and contains toxic and corrosive chemicals such as ammonia, perchloric acid, red phosphorus and battery acid. When the user smokes the drug, these elements contact the teeth, potentially eroding the enamel.

Poor Hygiene

• In the throes of addiction, most meth users neglect personal hygiene, especially oral hygiene. Once severe tooth decay and damage occur, the addict is even less likely to engage in mouth care because it becomes too painful; teeth often become soft or dry and crumbly.

Teeth Grinding

• Methamphetamine use can cause anxiety and agitation; while in this state users often clench their jaws and grind their teeth, an activity known as bruxism. Besides the eventual wearing down of teeth, bruxism can cause cracks in teeth from the pressure exerted while clenching. These cracks allow bacteria to enter and destroy the tooth.

Sugar

• Meth users often experience a strong desire for sweet food and drinks. Mountain Dew--soda pop with a high concentration of sugar--has a reputation as the user's drink of choice. Sugar, on a much smaller level, affects the same chemicals in the brain as meth, which may explain the cravings. Eating sugar causes a "high," thus assisting in extending a drug high, or making a user who is coming down temporarily feel better.

Dry Mouth

• Physiologically, meth affects blood vessels by shrinking them, thus limiting blood supply to vital areas. In the mouth, diminished blood flow to the gums and teeth eventually leads to decay. The flow of saliva to the mouth also diminishes, causing xerostomia, or "dry mouth." Saliva neutralizes acids in the mouth and helps flush out bacteria. Without it, the acids--both from food or drink and from meth--damage enamel, leading to decay due to excess bacteria.