Meth Mouth: Symptom of the Drug Abuse Says CDHA
The California Dental Hygienists’ Association or CDHA urged the public to increase their awareness of decaying teeth. This could be a sign that your loved one or a family member is addicted to methamphetamine and is abusing its use.
Noel Kelsch, registered dental hygienist and president of CDHA, said that the dental profession has a vital role in the early intervention of meth abuse because the first symptoms of the addiction are clearly visible in the mouth. He adds that methamphetamine is an evil drug that is enormously addictive and capable of rotting the teeth down to the gum line.
The National Methamphetamine Awareness Month (November) is being viewed by CDHA as a tool by which to educate the public about oral health and its significant role in determining methamphetamine abuse. The entire community is encouraged to be vigilant about the movement as this crisis affects not only teens but all economic levels of the society including professionals and children.
According to the association of dental hygienists, the early warning signs that can be noticed from people abusing the drug meth include having decayed tooth, being malnourished, having impaired vital signs, being irritable or euphoric, being sweaty and clammy, and frequently appearing nervous and tensed.
Kelsch and his group added that the difficult part about the problem is that most people find it hard to believe that someone they know is using it. Without overcoming this problem, the association will not find it easy convincing parents or relatives to get in touch with drug rehabilitation resources for their affected relative. Hence, CDHA believes that with greater awareness, the possibility of getting early intervention leading to positive results are increased.
The California Dental Hygienists’ Association is the state’s primary proponent for dental health. With 20 years of professional experience, the organization continues to expand opportunities for the dental profession and access to dental health care for the California region.
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