Somebody using cocaine might not realize the dangerous side effects that can occur with prolonged use. One example is a condition called cocaine jaw. It is one of the main signs that your loved one is addicted to cocaine. But what is cocaine jaw, exactly?
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What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a stimulant made with coca plant leaves that is incredibly addictive. It is often found as a fine, white powder that is often mixed with inert substances such as flour or cornstarch. It is most commonly snorted or rubbed into a person’s gums, though it can also be used by injecting it into the bloodstream after dissolving the powder in liquid. Cocaine is incredibly dangerous because of its addictive qualities but also because of the increase in cocaine laced with synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.
Cocaine can lead to serious side effects, including:
- Headaches
- Convulsions or seizures
- Heart disease, heart attack, stroke
- Mood swings
- Sexual trouble
- Lung damage
- Nosebleeds, loss of smell, runny nose
- Coke jaw
People who use cocaine will use it at increasingly higher doses within a short period of time in order to maintain their high. As somebody becomes more dependent on cocaine, their tolerance will grow, forcing them to take higher amounts every time in order to achieve the same high.
What Is Cocaine Jaw?
What is cocaine jaw? Cocaine is a powerful stimulant and can speed up many of the normal functions in the body. But what is cocaine jaw? Cocaine jaw, or coke jaw, is a side effect in which a person experiences jaw clenching and muscle twitching in the face. A person with a coke jaw will visibly grind their teeth from side to side, which can lead to further health issues.
Bruxism
People who experience coke jaw grind their teeth much more frequently than usual. Excessive cocaine consumption can lead to bruxism, which can lead to various dental problems such as worn enamel, cavities, tooth loss, dental erosion, and broken teeth.
Periodontitis
Cocaine can also be used by rubbing it into a person’s games instead of ingesting it. This is done to receive a faster high. Putting cocaine in your gums can increase the risk of inflammation and irritation in the gums. Having inflamed gums can lead to periodontal disease, a serious dental condition that damages supporting tissue. Extended use of cocaine can cause the tissue and bone beneath to be absorbed, which loosens teeth and recedes the gum line.
Oral Palate Perforation
Snorting cocaine can lead to constriction in the blood vessels that carry oxygen to the region. The cells in the septum cannot sustain themselves without the proper amount of oxygen and will die. This can lead to necrosis and cause the septum to deteriorate in the nasal cavity. Oral palate perforation occurs when the roof of the mouth sinks inward, making it difficult to swallow, speak, or eat.
Dry Mouth
Cocaine decreases the production of saliva, which can cause dry mouth. While this might seem just mildly inconvenient, over time, dryness can lead to bleeding gums, gum disease, and tooth decay.
Cocaine jaw is just one of the many negative side effects associated with chronic cocaine use. Cocaine is an incredibly addictive and dangerous drug. It is becoming even more dangerous as street dealers mix it with other unsafe drugs, leading to a higher risk of overdose.
Start Cocaine Addiction Treatment with Promises Right Step
If you or a loved one are struggling with a cocaine addiction, reach out to Promises Right Step today at 17135283709 to begin treatment. Everyone deserves the opportunity to build a happy, healthy life.
