Teeth and drug use
Teeth and drug use
Healthy teeth and gums
Healthy teeth and gums depend on
good oral hygiene
, a diet low in added
sugar
, healthy saliva and regular visits to the
dentist
.
Some drugs can cause tooth damage, so it is important that you tell your dentist about any drugs you are taking. They can tell you if the drug is likely to affect your teeth and what you can do to help prevent dental issues.
Drug use and dry mouth
Some drugs reduce the flow of saliva and cause a condition called
dry mouth
. Dry mouth significantly increases the risk of
tooth decay
. Saliva is important because it:
reduces the population of bacteria in the mouth
neutralises mouth acids that cause tooth decay
consistently repairs tooth enamel (the hard surface layer that protects the tooth) that has been damaged by acids in a process known as remineralisation
has a washing effect that clears food particles away from tooth surfaces.
Talk to your dentist about whether any drugs you are taking could be causing dry mouth.
Drugs can affect teeth and gums
The regular use of drugs can cause significant tooth damage. Some substances may also carry high risk to our oral health, even if we may not consider them drugs:
Alcohol
- regular intake of alcohol can cause a dry mouth and
tooth erosion
, as most alcohols are acidic. It can also increase your risk of
mouth cancer
, especially when consumed in combination with smoking.
Tobacco
– smoking is associated with an increased incidence of
cancer
, gum disease and poor gum healing, including mouth cancer (especially when done in combination with regularly drinking alcohol).
Cannabis
– also called marijuana, pot and weed. It can cause dry mouth and can lead to an increased risk of
gum problems
. Cannabis smoke can increase the risk of mouth cancer.
Cocaine
– also called coke or blow. Users sometimes rub cocaine over their gums, causing ulceration of gums and the underlying bone. When mixed with saliva, cocaine becomes extremely acidic and this erodes tooth enamel and exposes the underlying dentine to decay-causing bacteria. Cocaine and crack cocaine cause dry mouth, which further increases the risk of tooth decay. Cocaine also increases
tooth grinding (bruxism)
which further wears the teeth.
Ecstasy (MDMA)
– also called the love drug, ‘E’, ’eckies’, ‘pingers’ or ‘caps’. Side effects of ecstasy include tooth grinding, jaw clenching and dry mouth.
Heroin
– also called smack, horse or hammer. People who use heroin tend to crave sweet foods, which can increase the risk of tooth decay if dental hygiene is neglected. Heroin can also cause dry mouth and tooth grinding.
Methamphetamine
– also called ice, crystal meth, glass, shards or puff. This drug causes severe tooth decay in a very short time. The term ‘meth mouth’ is used to describe the extensive damage typically caused by this drug. Methamphetamine is highly acidic and attacks tooth enamel. Other side effects include dry mouth, teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
Drinks containing
caffeine
are acidic and can cause tooth erosion if consumed regularly and in large amounts. Energy drinks and drip or percolated coffee contain a lot of caffeine, so it’s best to limit or avoid these drinks.
Any drug dependence or drug use that causes a person to neglect their personal hygiene, diet and dental care can significantly increase the risk of dental (and many other) problems.
Treating tooth and gum problems
Professional treatment depends on the type of drug and its effects on your teeth and gums. This may include:
Fluoride
strengthens teeth and reduces the risk of decay. The dentist may apply topical fluoride to the surface of your teeth. Fluoride mouthwashes or higher-strength fluoride toothpaste may be recommended for use at home.
Decayed teeth will need
dental fillings
or other
restorative work
such as crowns.
Badly decayed teeth may need to be removed. Bridges, dental implants or partial or full
dentures
may be recommended.
The dentist can recommend various
cosmetic treatments
(such as veneers) that can improve the look of your mouth and smile if it is important to you.
Preventing tooth and gum problems
Suggestions include:
If you would like support with addressing a
substance use disorder
, consider talking to your doctor about support services or entering a
drug treatment program
.
Avoid
fizzy soft drinks
, which are highly acidic and can erode tooth enamel. Drink fluoridated tap
water
instead.
Cut back on sweet or sticky foods such as biscuits or lollies.
Chew sugar-free gum to encourage a steady flow of saliva.
Pay careful attention to your dental hygiene habits. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day with standard fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day. Be gentle when cleaning your teeth to avoid damaging the gums.
Visit your dentist at least once or twice a year where possible.
Minimise your intake of alcohol.
Consider
quitting smoking
.
Ask your doctor and dentist for further self-care suggestions, and follow them carefully.
Drug use and dental treatment
If you are scheduled for dental treatment, tell your dentist about your alcohol or smoking intake, as well as any drugs you are taking or have recently taken.
Also tell your dentist about any medications you are taking or have recently taken, including prescription, over-the-counter and herbal medications.
Where to get help
Your
dentist
Your
GP (doctor)
Australian Dental Association – ’Find a
dentist’
External Link
or Tel.
(03) 8825 4600
in Victoria
Dental Health Services
Victoria
External Link
– provides public dental services through the
Royal Dental Hospital of
Melbourne
External Link
and community dental clinics, for eligible people Tel.
(03) 9341 1000
or
1800 833 039
outside Melbourne metro