The Impacts of Drug Abuse on Oral Health

• Teeth and Drug Use
• Effects of Drugs on the Mouth
• How Drugs Affect Dental Health
• Stimulants and Oral Health
• Oral Health Effects and Care for Drug Abusers
• Methadone and Oral Health
• Stratford, CT, Dentistry
• Oral Manifestations of Drug Abuse
• The Relationship Between Oral and General Health

Cannabis

Smoking cannabis, either as marijuana or hashish, can have serious adverse effects on overall oral health. It has been a significant cause of oral cancer among users as well as periodontitis and dry mouth. Reports have shown that those who use these substances are at risk of developing leukoedema or thrush.

• Cannabis Oral Health Effects
• Why Dentists Don’t Want You to Smoke Pot

Alcohol

Although alcohol is legal, it can be very addictive, and it’s unhealthy on many levels. Alcohol itself can dry out your mouth, and some alcoholic drinks, like beer, are acidic, which can further damage your teeth. In addition, many alcoholic drinks are served with sugary mixers like fruit juice or soda, which can contribute to plaque buildup. Regular alcohol consumption also raises your risk of oral cancer.

• Alcoholism and Oral Health
• Consumption of Alcohol Increases Disease-Causing Bacteria

Tobacco

Tobacco has long been the most well-known drug to be associated with oral health problems, ranging from cancers of the mouth, tongue, lip, and throat to tooth discoloration. Whether you smoke or chew tobacco, you’re likely to do significant damage to your mouth and teeth. In addition, smoking tobacco is associated with dry mouth, which can result in gum disease and halitosis.

• Tobacco and Oral Health
• Oral Health Benefits of Quitting Tobacco
• Tobacco or Oral Health?
• Smoking, Gum Disease, and Loss of Teeth

Opiates

This group of substances includes heroin and morphine. Opiate users often crave sugary substances like candy and soda, which can damage the teeth. In addition, using these substances can cause people to grind their teeth, which can cause serious damage to the teeth and jaw. And since opiates reduce the sensation of pain, people who use these drugs may not notice dental problems like cavities and gum disease before it’s too late to save their teeth.

• Effects of Opiates on Gums and Teeth
• Opioid use and Dentistry

Cocaine

Cocaine is a stimulant and is associated with a range of oral health problems. For starters, it is very acidic, and if it comes in contact with the teeth, it can wear down the enamel. Smoking crack cocaine can be especially detrimental, but another especially dangerous practice is rubbing powdered cocaine into the gums, which can cause sores in the mouth that could get infected. Cocaine use can also lead someone to grind their teeth or clench their jaw, which can cause cracked teeth and damage to the gums and jaw. Over time, people who snort cocaine can also develop palatal perforation, which is when the tissue between the roof of the mouth and the nose is damaged and dies, leaving a hole behind. When this happens, it can become difficult for the person to eat, drink, or talk.

• Cocaine and Oral Health
• How Cocaine Affects Gums and Teeth

Thankfully, all of these problems are easily avoided by most people. For those who are already addicted, it’s important to take steps to stop, including getting help from medical professionals to deal with the addiction and its side effects, which may include dental treatments or sleep apnea therapy. Stratford residents who do not abuse drugs or alcohol should avoid doing so, and they should also take steps to ensure that they and their families practice good oral hygiene, including regular visits to specialists in adult or pediatric dentistry. Stratford, CT‘s smiles will be safe with proper preventive measures.