Dental Health: Facts and Tips for People Who Use Drugs

Dental Health: Facts and Tips for People Who Use Drugs

PUBLISHED ON 7/12/24

Managing Risks and Staying Hydrated It’s important to address the potential health risks associated with stimulants and smoking, without judgment or stigma. Stimulant drug use, such as methamphetamine, can lead to teeth grinding (bruxism) and enamel erosion due to the acidic nature of the drugs. Smoking, including both tobacco and drugs, can result in dry mouth, tooth decay, and gum issues.

Oral health is vital for overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to various health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. By prioritizing oral hygiene, you’re investing in your longterm health.

Sometimes it’s hard to get dental care or remember to practice oral hygiene. Even if you can’t get to a dentist, regular brushing is a fundamental practice that helps maintain healthy teeth and gums, contributing to good dental health over all.

Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial for your oral health — and your general well-being!

Drinking enough water helps your mouth produce saliva, which is important for getting rid of acids and harmful particles that can lead to tooth decay and gum issues.

Whether you use drugs or not, oral care matters. We’ve got tips to help you manage discomfort and maintain oral health.

What to Watch Out For • • • • • •

Mouth & Lip Burns Teeth/Jaw Grinding Dry Mouth Tooth Decay Enamel Erosion Bleeding & Painful Gums

These issues can be short or long-term, but they can be prevented and managed. There’s a lot of stigma around oral health for people who use drugs, like the “meth mouth” myth.

Lack of dental care access feeds these misconceptions. Taking care of your oral health goes beyond just having a nice smile. Did you know that cracked lips and sharing smoking supplies can actually increase the risk of Hepatitis C (HCV) transmission? By keeping your lips healthy and avoiding the sharing of smoking equipment, you’re also taking steps to protect yourself and others from potential health risks.

Tips to Manage Common Issues Jaw Pain, Teeth Grinding, Dry Mouth • Chew sugar-free gum after or during use • Use a mouthpiece as a barrier between •

your teeth Try supplements like Magnesium Malate

Canker Sores or Sore Mouth • Rinse with salt water or baking soda • Hydrogen peroxide rinse (don’t swallow!)

• Salt water can help with swelling & discomfort

Enamel Breakdown • Wash mouth with water after smoking • Brush & use alcohol-free mouthwash •

after smoking Drink sugar-free drinks

Other Useful Tips • Stay hydrated • Swish with salt water for pain • Rinse out your mouth before/after •

smoking Oral care can reduce smell on breath

If possible, try to see a dentist for a cleaning once a year — or even better, every six months!

Certain oral health conditions are very difficult to manage at home — things like cracked teeth, loose or missing crowns or fillings, persistent tooth or jaw pain, or abscesses and severe swelling are best treated with professional supervision. Left untreated, they can lead to bigger, wholebody complications.

Dental care is often inaccessible because of cost and stigma. There may be low-cost care available in your area. To look for low cost care try calling your state or local health department, or see if you can become a patient at a local dental school.

How to Do a Salt Water Rinse 1. Mix: Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. You don’t need to use fancy salt; regular table salt works just fine.

2. Swish: Take a mouthful of the salt water solution and swish it around in your mouth. Try to get the solution to reach all areas of your mouth, including your gums and teeth.

3. Gargle: If you have a sore throat or discomfort in your throat, you can also gargle with the

salt water solution. This can help soothe any irritation.

4. Spit: After swishing and gargling for about 30 seconds to a minute, spit out the salt water into the sink.

5. Rinse: Finally, rinse your mouth with plain water or a non-sugary liquid. This helps to remove any residual salt and ensures your mouth doesn’t feel overly dry.

You can do a salt water rinse a couple of times a day, especially if you’re experiencing discomfort or pain in your mouth. It’s an easy and affordable way to promote oral health and manage oral issues.

Remember, no one is perfect when it comes to oral care. Small changes and consistent efforts can make a big difference in your oral health. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help or ask questions–you’re not alone on this journey to better oral hygiene!