Methamphetamine abuse and dentistry: a review of the literature and presentation of a clinical case.
Methamphetamine is not a new drug. It has a long and storied history of legitimate clinical use and recreational abuse. Unfortunately, abuse of methamphetamine is increasing with alarming frequency in the United States and leads to appalling destruction of dentition. The pathognomonic effects of methamphetamine abuse on teeth have led to the term "meth mouth." This term, while descriptive of the clinical appearance of patients, is a misnomer. A review of available information on methamphetamine abuse is presented and discussed. A clinical case is documented to help clinicians recognize and manage patients who may be abusing methamphetamines.
Goodchild
Jason H
JH
Division of Oral Diagnosis, New Jersey Dental School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA. goodchjh@umdnj.edu <goodchjh@umdnj.edu>
Donaldson
Mark
M
D000328:Adult; D019969:Amphetamine-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D002012:Bruxism / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology; D002327:Cariostatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008694:Methamphetamine; D012969:Sodium Fluoride / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014072:Tooth Abrasion / Q000209:etiology; D014481:United States; D014987:Xerostomia / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology
D002327:Cariostatic Agents; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D008694:Methamphetamine; D012969:Sodium Fluoride