Dental Health After Recovering from Addiction

Addiction to various substances is a very real disease that affects the lives of many. Some of these harmful substances can cause damage to your teeth as well as to your overall health. But while addictions can be overcome, the damage to your smile may persist.

It’s very important to many former addicts that they receive the right kind of dental care to restore their teeth, mouth, and smile after overcoming their addiction. The drug that causes the most damage to your oral health is meth. You may have seen the posters of people suffering from “meth mouth,” which are used to serve as a deterrent from ever trying the drug. But if you do have meth mouth, what can be done to restore your smile?

After overcoming such an intense and damaging addiction, you deserve to be able to proudly show off a healthy and beautiful smile.

How Dental Professionals Can Help

There are certain symptoms dental professionals will keep an eye out for if they suspect meth use. These symptoms include the look of malnourishment and distinctive patterns of tooth decay on the teeth.

If meth use is suspected or confirmed, there are specific actions that need to be taken according to the American Dental Association. These include:

• A thorough assessment and examination will be performed as well as going over the patient’s dental and medical history.
• Your dentist will express concern or suspicion of drug abuse.
• If the patient is receptive, we will provide contact information for a local rehabilitation center or clinic.
• Preventative measures will be taken, such as fluoride treatments.
• Caution will be taken if and when the patient requires sedation, anesthesia, or nitrous oxide.
• Lastly, your dental provider will take time to educate you about any risks associated with drug use; both medical and dental.

If you have recently gone through a rehabilitation program and are looking for a fresh start and a healthy, clean smile, please contact your general dentist today. Restorative dental procedures will be discussed with you and your dentist can help you choose which options are right for you.

Drug abuse can also cause damage to the gum tissue as well. If you have concerns about your gum health in relation to any drug use, please contact Coastal Periodontics. Our office is located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.