Drug addiction is a very serious condition that impacts many people's lives in a variety of different ways. Recovery is never easy, but with the right help, it can be done. However, there are often many lasting physical changes that result from an extended period of drug abuse.
The good news is that many of those issues can also be treated once the habit has been kicked. This is particularly true when it comes to the dental damage caused by certain drugs, often referred to as "meth mouth."
Meth is just one of the many drugs that can damage your teeth and gums, but methamphetamines in particular can cause serious damage, especially after prolonged use or regular binging.
Getting a Fresh Start
Unfortunately, the types of physical damage left by repeated drug use can make it difficult for recovering addicts to make a completely fresh start. We've seen so many billboards and TV commercials warning about the potential side effects, that it's hard to pretend the damage is a result of anything but meth or other drug use.
Restoring a smile after addiction recovery may seem like a small thing, but it is an important step toward facing the world with a renewed outlook.
On top of that, a person should be able to smile after overcoming such a serious disease.
What Are the Signs and What Can Be Done About Them?
After prolonged use of meth, a very distinctive pattern of decay can form on the surface of the teeth.
When dentists spot these signs, they may suspect the use of methamphetamines and take actions that are recommended by the American Dental Association.
Many people who are currently dealing with such a debilitating habit or are in the recovery phases may not want to hear their dentist talk to them about it. However, there are some measures that the ADA recommends dentists take.
First, the dental exam should also include an assessment of the patient's entire medical and dental history, to make sure the diagnosis is right on. A concern may be expressed at this point, but it's a subject that needs to be approached very carefully.
If the patient is open to help, the dentist should be able to provide phone numbers to certified placers where rehabilitation can start.
From there, the dentist can start to recommend dental treatments that will restore or protect their teeth. They might start with topical fluorides and recommend changes to the diet that will help improve their overall dental health.
Then, as restorative dental procedures are introduced, the dentist will need to be extra cautious about how they use sedatives, anesthesia, and nitrous oxide.
Common Restorative Procedures
Any damage that may have been done before the patient recovered from their addiction can usually be corrected. The extend of the damage will determine exactly what needs to be done, and the dentist will be able to make recommendations based on their assessments.
Teeth whitening is, of course, is one of the go-to procedures, but many people need a little more than that. Veneers are a great solution for cracks or chips in the teeth, and if they're missing altogether then implants may be the way to go.
If things are particularly bad, then a full-mouth restoration may be in order. That may be a last resort, but if it helps a patient recover their smile and take back another part of his or her life, then it will be worth it.