Meth mouth
Added: January 25, 2009 - 5:44 PM
By: Patient Email Withheld, Las Vegas, NV
Need Dentist / Specialist:
Yes
Provide Cost Estimate:
Yes
X-rays Available:
No
Case Summary
Exam & Consultation
Broken Tooth
Extractions / Oral Surgery
Teeth: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31,32
Last Full Mouth X-Ray: 2007
Case Description
In a nut shell my teeth are terrible. They are broken stained and chipped. I have been clean for well over 3 years but still have to deal with the long lasting effects. I have no insurance :( I am only 28 years old and don't want to hide my smile for the rest of my life. I have been dealing with one tooth being almost fully gone but keeps me in pain constantly. My new best friend is Ambesol. Its getting hard to eat or drink anything cold. There is a chip in between my 2 front teeth.
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Reply: Meth mouth
added: January 25, 2009 - 8:21 PM
Cost Estimate: $ No Estimate at this time. Additional information required.
Methylamphetamine abuse causes such destruction to the teeth that we often have to resort to extensive restoration or extraction of all the remaining teeth. The dry mouth associated with use of the drug coupled with intake of sugar like mountain dew allows the bacteria that cause tooth decay to run rampant. Even after the drug is no longer being used, the teeth are decalcified and are very susceptible to decay. This can be controlled by restoring the teeth with fillings and religious use of precription fluoride. However, crowns are often required. In extreme cases the only reasonable thing to do is to extract all the remaining teeth and place dentures. I had to do this on a 19 year old once. Four implants in each arch can be placed to stabilize the dentures and prevent bone loss. This can create an esthetic result that is very functional but I hate to see this done in someone who is very young. On the bright side, I doubt your case is as advanced as many I have seen. I''''m happy to examine you free of charge.
Reply: Meth mouth
added: January 25, 2009 - 9:32 PM
Cost Estimate: $NO CHARGE CONSULTATION
The oral effects of methamphetamine, an addictive drug commonly made with household products or over-the-counter medicines, are so devastating and so unique that the condition is now known in medical circles as meth mouth. In a few months, use of the drug can turn a healthy set of teeth into a rotting mess. But the physical pain often associated with dental problems seldom may not be experienced by meth users because the nerves in their teeth die quickly. Recovering meth addicts often need emergency care, and the American Dental Association says the problem is growing dramatically. With federal studies showing that Nevada leads the nation in use of the drug, you are one of many people suffering from methamphetamine''''s damaging effect on oral health.You should be congratulated for 3 years of clean living. The next step in your recovery needs to be a rehabilitation of your mouth. I will be happy to provide a consultation with you in person to help you get your smile back.I''''m so glad you are taking steps to recovery. Helping people who do not have insurance is one of the things we focus on. We will look forward to meeting you.
Reply: Meth mouth
added: January 26, 2009 - 3:51 PM
Cost Estimate: $Free consultation!
Depending on the level of destruction to your teeth, you may have several different treatment options available to you. I have treated several patients with a story similar to yours and can show you before and after pictures of their treatment outcomes.These patients tell me that while they have succeeded in fighting addiction and maintained a clean life for many years, they are reminded of their drug history every time they smile. It is a rewarding experience for me to provide them with a smile that represents them in their new life.I''''d be happy to meet with you and develop a treatment plan to meet your needs. Please call my office to schedule a no cost, no obligation consultation at 896-8882.Paul D. Schwarz, DMD, MBA
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