Meth and Dental and Oral Health
Teeth and gums need blood to stay healthy. Crystal causes the vessels that supply blood to oral tissues to shrink up.
CONCERNS
* Tooth decay * Gum problems * Bone loss * Tooth loss
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Reduced blood supply causes tissues to break down. ----------> |
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With repeated shrinking, the blood vessels don't recover and tissues die. <---------- |
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| Crystal also causes dry mouth. Saliva neutralizes acids in the mouth. Less saliva means more acid. Acids eat away at the minerals in tooth enamel and cause holes or weak spots that turn into cavities. |
Brush and floss your teeth on a regular basis.
Brushing and flossing get rid of bacteria that feed on sugars in the mouth. When bacteria eat sugars, they secrete acid. More acid means more tooth and gum decay.
Oral sex is more risky when gums or teeth are not healthy.
HIV and other micro-organisms from your partner's penis can mix with your blood and cause infection. If you have bad oral health, it's best to use a condom when you give head.