WASHINGTON, DC--Dr. John S. Findley, president of the American Dental Association, has applauded Capitol Hill legislators for introducing a federal bill aimed at understanding and treating "meth mouth."
Meth mouth is a condition in which teeth can become blackened, stained, rotting and crumbling from methamphetamine use.
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.) introduced the bill Feb. 13, 2009. It was co-sponsored by Senators Kent Conrad (D-N.D.), Tim Johnson (D-S.D.), Charles Schumer, (D-N.Y.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.).
If passed into law, the bill will fund local, school-based initiatives to educate primary and elementary school students about the oral health aspects of meth use.
The bill will also enhance federal research and promote a series of continuing education activities for dentists to learn more about substance use disorders and their relationship to oral health and dental care.
Dr. Findley expressed strong approval of the bill as little is known about the actual causes of meth mouth; however, it is known that the drug can cause dry mouth. This, in turn, can increase dental caries (tooth decay).
Drug users also have a tendency to grind and clench their teeth. Few studies have been published about its prevalence, causes, or its cost to the public.
"This condition robs the young and old alike of their oral health, thereby jeopardizing their overall health," said Dr. Findley. "It can lead to a lifetime of wearing dentures. We applaud these senators for helping us to better understand causes of this health condition."
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