Tuesday, November 28, 2006

Dental Did You Know: Methamphetamine and Salivary Flow

From the Academy of General Dentistry:

Methamphetamine , a sympathomimetic amine, acts on alpha adrenergic receptors of salivary gland vasculature, producing vasoconstriction and reducing salivary flow.

Translation for patients:

Meth reduces the blood flow in saliva glands which reduces the amount of spit produced. This increases the probability of getting cavities.

Source: Klasser G and Epstein J, General Dentistry, November-December, Vol 54, No 6, pg 431-439.


Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100