Meth Mouth Syndrome

Abstract

Methamphetamine (MA) is a powerful stimulant that increases dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine in the brain, causing intense euphoria but also making it highly addictive. Long-term use can damage the brain, lead to memory and thinking problems, trigger aggression and psychosis, and result in a chronic condition known as methamphetamine use disorder. This thesis looks at MA as a serious public health issue, tracing its history from medical and wartime use during World War II to its current status as an illegal drug, and highlighting how poverty, homelessness, and trauma increase both addiction risk and barriers to treatment.

A major focus of the thesis is “meth mouth syndrome,” a severe form of dental damage common in MA users. This condition is caused by dry mouth, teeth grinding, high sugar intake, poor oral hygiene, and other health factors, leading to rapid tooth decay, gum disease, and even bone damage. Because these oral signs often appear early, dentists play an important role in identifying affected patients and creating personalized treatment plans to restore function, appearance, and overall quality of life.