Methamphetamine, otherwise known as meth, is one of the most dangerous drugs on the street market. It’s accessible and relatively cheap, largely because it’s so easily synthesized out of common ingredients. Meth labs exist in campers, backyard sheds, kitchens, and basements all across the country. Its energizing and euphoric effects are what draw people to it, only to learn that it is highly addictive and has a list of difficult side effects that can be lasting and devastating. For example, meth and teeth don’t have a good relationship. If you are abusing meth, you need professional support from the staff at a meth addiction rehab center.
Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge (PAATC) offers evidence-based meth addiction treatment. Medically managed detox, faith-based therapy, and inpatient and outpatient options are all available. Reach out to learn more about the side effects of meth and how you can get started on a life of recovery. Our online form is easy. Or, you can call us at 888.546.2579.
What Is Meth?
Meth is an extremely addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It:
- Interferes with the chemistry of the brain by slowing or stopping the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine
- Changes the structures within the brain over time and those changes can be lasting and sometimes permanent
- Can have permanent effects on certain body systems
- Is abused by people of all ages, upbringings, ethnicity, and socio-economic status
- Is increasingly popular among adolescents
Crystal meth is a form of meth that is highly purified and increasingly common. It’s even more dangerous than powdered meth.
Meth Mouth
The connection between meth and teeth is something most people know something about. It’s called meth mouth and it’s one of the most obvious, easily recognizable side effects of meth.
The disturbing effects of meth on oral and dental health include:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Loss of teeth
- Tooth breakage
These dental problems among meth abusers occur at much higher rates than the average for those who don’t use meth.
Meth mouth includes darkened or blackened teeth, bad breath, and rot in all parts of the tooth, including the root. There are several causes of this level of decay:
- Methamphetamine is acidic
- Meth causes dry mouth, which affects mouth health
- Poor oral hygiene results from a fixation on drug-seeking and drug-taking
- When high, people crave sugary drinks
- Meth users often grind or clench their teeth
Meth mouth symptoms are commensurate with the amount of meth being taken. The more meth is used, the greater the dental effects. Also, people over 30, women, and smokers are more likely to experience the symptoms of gum loss and tooth decay.
Other Side Effects of Meth
The dangers of meth are system-wide, though the meth and teeth seem to be the most prominent and noticeable. Some of the short-term side effects of meth are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Trouble sleeping
- Shortness of breath
- Poor appetite
- Tremors
- Hyperactivity
- Sores and abscesses on the skin
There are longer-term, more consequential effects of meth, such as:
- Hypertension
- Stroke
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Brain damage
- Early aging
- Impulse control
- Violent outbursts
- Confusion
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Damage to cognitive functioning
The most important thing you need to know about the side effects of meth addiction is that they can be halted, and most of the symptoms will improve the longer you are in recovery.
Meth Addiction Treatment at PAATC
At Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge, our staff will support you through the process of preparing for rehab. We can walk you through the intake and help you decide whether you want or need inpatient treatment or if outpatient will be best for you. Your individualized treatment plan will include the evidence-based treatments you’ll have access to and will also schedule a range of learning, therapeutic, and self-care opportunities for you while you are in treatment.
Find out more about meth addiction treatment. Call 888.546.2579 or submit this online form. Your recovery will be in good hands with PAATC.
