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Long-term meth use is a smack in the mouth
Many methamphetamine addicts suffer from acute tooth decay, broken teeth and extreme discoloration in the mouth.
Meth itself is made with acidic ingredients that can hard teeth
on their own.
Additionally, the American Dental Association, "meth mouth" is probably caused by a combination of drug-induced psychological and physiological changes resulting in dry mouth, extended periods of poor oral hygiene, frequent consumption of high-calorie, carbonated beverages and tooth grinding and clenching."
Dry mouth robs the teech of saliva's natural protective effects and directly leads to increased tooth decay, particularly at the gumline.
Ruined: This set of meth-eroded teeth was largely removed during treatment at the University of Tennessee
(Department of Justice photo)
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An inside look
Dr. Mitchell A. Goodis, a dentist in Diamond Springs, Calif., created a series videos peeking inside the lives and mouths of methamphetamine users.
Nationwide epidemic
Nationwide epidemic
NATIONAL METHAMPHETAMINE TRAINING & TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER
Photo from Dr. Goodis video series
Seattle times article on prison expenses
http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=20060603&slug=methmouth03m
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INSIDE THE EPIDEMIC