Dental Hygienists Looking Out for Meth Mouth

Methamphetamine has been a popular street drug for some time, and researchers are discovering that the drug is extremely bad for dental health. The American Dental Association says that meth use is on the rise, and dental hygienists should be paying attention to oral signs to assist users in getting help.

Meth-Mouth Mess

Many dental hygienists who have associate's or related university degrees may have learned how to identify meth-mouth. Meth-mouth is a condition characterized by extensive caries or tooth decay. The teeth are blackened, stained, rotting, or just falling apart. Part of this is caused by the drug suppressing saliva production, and the increased motor activity, which causes tooth grinding, excessive chewing, and clenching.

Dental Disaster

Some of the signs that dental hygienists and dentists should look for in a meth user include the following:

• Accelerated tooth decay
• Malnourished appearance
• Tooth wear due to grinding and clenching
• Poor reliability for dental appointments

American Dental Association Guidelines

The American Dental Association has supplied guidelines for dental hygienists, dentists, and any other oral health professionals dealing with suspected meth-users.

• Encourage the drinking of water.
• Complete a full oral examination.
• Educate the patients about major oral health problems.
• Be cautious of using local anesthetics or other narcotics due to potential drug interactions.
• Refer the patient to a physician or drug counselor.

Dental Hygienists and University Degrees

As a dental hygienist, you would have a chance to help people maintain healthy teeth and a healthy mouth. An associate's degree or other university degree in dental hygiene will teach you important fundamentals of oral health. The American Dental Hygienists Association says that earning a diploma, certificate, or associate's degree can take two years. A four-year university degree may take longer, but it can also make you more competitive for better dental hygienist jobs.

With an associate's degree, four-year university degree, or other certification, you can start a career as a dental hygienist.

Sources

• American Dental Hygienists Association
• Canadian Dental Association
• Methamphetamine Use and Oral Health (Meth Mouth), American Dental Association

About the Author
James Tolles is a freelance writer and has learned to appreciate dental hygienists. He ventures into the dental office twice a year and has been cavity-free for some time.