Methamphetamine-induced dental caries: a review of the literature

Authors

  • Ateeq Ur Rehman Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
  • Bader Munir Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, de'Montmorency College of Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47391/JPMA.6368

Abstract

Clinical picture of patients taking methamphetamine for long duration includes rampant caries of the smooth surfaces of the whole dentition. The increasing use of methamphetamine in homosexuals is leading to the spread of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). Easy availability and rapidly spreading nature of this drug (methamphetamine) results in worldwide increase of patients with medical and dental problems. Its effect on human dentition is highly damaging as patients with a beautiful smile begin to present a horrible picture of black, broken, and painful teeth within one year of methamphetamine use. Restoration of aesthetics and function of these teeth is not an easy task, and usually the first step to deal with this condition is counselling the patient to stop using this drug. Knowledge of methamphetamine-induced undesirable effects on the human body is important for the general dental practitioner as referral to mental health services is necessary in this condition.

Author Biography

Bader Munir, Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, de'Montmorency College of Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan

Associate professor Operative dentistry de'Montmorency college of dentistry lahore

Published

2023-04-15

How to Cite

Rehman, A. U., & Bader Munir. (2023). Methamphetamine-induced dental caries: a review of the literature. Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 73(05), 1079–1082. https://doi.org/10.47391/JPMA.6368

Issue

Section

SHORT COMMUNICATION