opiates and dental problems????

[opus88]

I've seen mention of dental problems when using opiates....is this common?
And if it is common can anyone tell me is this from high doses and long term use or just what the story is?
would appreciate all comments please

[sandee1818]

I read an excellent article on this subject. I will see if I can find it again.
Basically it said that due to opiates often causing a sweet tooth and the low saliva output it creates dental problems.
Have you ever seen a drug user that uses say heroin or meth have pretty teeth? No! Why the same reason and also they tend to have non existent hygiene. They do not worry about brushing flossing or even bathing sometimes but thats a whole different story:)
But the sweet tooth and low saliva output are the main reasons.
When you drink soda or eat candy,cake etc. make sure and brush and also keep your mouth hydrated with water. This will help:)

[ChronicPain1]

I've had no issues in over two years, only two minor cavities which came from eating my favorite taffy candy.

I've heard that opiates can decrease the production of saliva and that's what can potentially lead to dental problems. I brush, floss and drink fluoridated water so I haven't had many problems.

However dental issues can be related to genetics and diet as well, so it'd be hard to tell what it came from unless everything else remained the same.