Sex, Drugs And Oral Health

Largely affecting the younger generation, this time of experimentation can have disastrous consequences for oral health.

Much as we might like to think of our own children as ‘little angels’, the reality is that, in their later teenage years, they are trying to find their own way into the world and will encounter a number of challenges along the way. In the past, this was likely to lead to habits such as smoking and a significant level of drinking. While this can still be a factor, the reality is that many youngsters experiment with various drugs. Often, this is a temporary phase, but for some, it can have a longer lasting impact.

The dangers of drugs are well known, especially if taken over a long period of time, but we want to look specifically at how these drugs can impact the oral health of the user too. Before we take a look at the various drugs though, let us take a look at how that other ‘journey’ in teenage years can affect oral health.

Sex

We won’t delve too deeply into this but there is a specific area of sex that can cause real and dangerous problems to oral health and is definitely on the rise. As younger people are perhaps more likely to have a number of sexual partners, the risks for them are increased. We are talking here about oral sex.

The big risk in this sexual practice is the transmission of HPV (Human Papillomavirus). This is transmitted between the mouth and genitals. It is more likely to affect men than women and can cause initial symptoms such as persistent soreness of the throat and pain when swallowing. If you experience any issues like this, you should see your GP as HPV is one of the leading causes of oral cancer and should be investigated and treated where necessary,  as soon as possible.

There are now HPV vaccinations available and we recommend that our more youthful Wickford patients discuss this with their GP.

Let us take a look now at the impact of various ‘street drugs’ on oral health. Please bear in mind that these relate to oral health issues only and other health risks are also possible or likely.

Cocaine

A widely used drug well known for its stimulant qualities that can make the user more alert and energetic. From an oral health perspective, it greatly increases the risk of gum disease and other infections. This is due to the fact that users tend to experience dry mouths which is a well known cause of gum disease and one that we sometimes see at the Cygnet Dental Practice. The drug also narrows the tiny blood vessels in the gums that supply oxygen and could slow down healing and lead to more infections in the oral cavity.

‘Meth’ (Methamphetamine)

This is a very dangerous drug that can also cause very severe tooth decay and broken and badly discoloured teeth. Some of the broken teeth are likely to be caused by the excessive teeth grinding that the drug can cause. Add to this poor oral health care and a diet high in sugar and it isn’t hard to see how this drug has disastrous consequences for teeth.

Cannabis

One of the more commonly used drugs, sometimes described as a ‘gateway drug’ as it might tempt users into experimenting with harder drugs. More recent varieties have been much stronger than in the past and this can exaggerate the problems too. A dry mouth is very common and this is likely to lead to periodontal disease. The well known ‘munchies’, i.e. the craving to snack frequently is also problematic as it is unlikely to be healthy foods that are chosen and tooth decay is likely too.

Ecstasy (MDMA)

Along with a dry mouth and general dehydration, users of this drug are likely to clench their jaws and grind their teeth quite a lot too.  This can lead to jaw issues such as TMJ and damage to the tooth enamel, either in the form of erosion or breakages.

Heroin/opiates

One of the most addictive of all drugs and this often means long term usage and problems. Again, a dry mouth and a craving for sugary foods are common and the lifestyle usually means that there is little or very poor oral health care carried out. To add to this, the pain killing qualities of this type of drug can mean that issues like toothache are barely noticed and users are unlikely to see a dentist because of this, leading to long term and significant problems.

Not all teenagers will try these of course but the likelihood is that a number of them will. As a parent, you will need to monitor this and approach the subject in the best way that you can, seeking outside medical help where needed.

As you can see, the effects on teeth can be quite devastating but we all make mistakes. If you or your child has suffered from problems through these drugs and are now recovering, we can help you to restore your teeth with a range of treatments including veneers, crowns and dental implants. If you would like to discuss this with us or would like further information, please call the Cygnet Dental Practice on 01268 733078.