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Overview
Rampant tooth decay is a common side effect of methamphetamine dependence. The condition—known as meth mouth—develops rapidly and is attributable to the drug's acidic nature, its ability to dry the mouth, the tendency of users to grind and clench their teeth, and a drug-induced craving for sugary drinks. Often the tooth damage is so severe that extraction is the only viable option.
'Meth mouth' is becoming a highly visible public health issue. Beyond destroying a person's smile and natural ability to chew, 'meth mouth' is difficult to treat and can pose serious patient management issues for dentists. The growing need for emergency dental care is also draining correctional health care budgets, as more and more meth users are being put behind bars.
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Legislation
Meth Mouth Prevention and Community Recovery Act
Meth Mouth Correctional Costs and Reentry Support Act
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Letters and Testimony
- January 18, 2008—Dear Colleague Letter urging members of the Senate to support the Meth Mouth Prevention and Community Recovery Act (S. 1906) and the Meth Mouth Correctional Costs and Reentry Support Act (S. 1907) | PDF file/58k
- July 17, 2007—Dear Colleague Letter urging members of the House to support the Meth Mouth Prevention and Community Recovery Act (H.R. 3186) and the Meth Mouth Correctional Costs and Reentry Support Act (H.R. 3187) | PDF file/43k
- April 26, 2006—Letter to Rep. Jim Oberstar (R-MN-8), expressing gratitude for the dental provision contained in section 204 of the Methamphetamine Eradication Act (H.R. 4763)
| PDF file/88k
- January 23, 2006—Testimony to the Senators' National Town Hall Meeting on Methamphetamine Awareness and Prevention, describing the oral health effects of methamphetamine use
| PDF file/32k
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ADA Resources
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Additional Resources
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Contact Us
For additional information, please contact:
Federal Affairs
1111 14th Street NW, Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20005
202.898.2400
Fax: 202.898.2437
E-mail: govtpol@ada.org
State Government Affairs
ADA Chicago Headquarters
211 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
312.440.2525
Fax: 312.440.3539
E-mail: govtpol@ada.org
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