An estimated 1,500 ER visits alone were attributed to Adderall use with Adderall jaw stretch or jaw stretching as some of the common findings related to drug misuse. As many individuals continue to succumb to addiction, there is a growing concern over its ill effects especially its long-term side effects on the human body.
Transcend Recovery Community is here to shed light on one of the country's most abused medications helping you further understand the many dental effects of Adderall such as jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Continue reading to learn more about this condition and how someone suffering from this can seek help.
Does Adderall Cause Tight Jaw and Teeth Grinding?
Adderall is a stimulant medication prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Still, it has become a popular medication for abuse, hence the rise of Adderall addiction.
Because Adderall acts as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, it can cause several unpleasant side effects in those who take it. One of these side effects is jaw clenching, which can lead to teeth grinding or bruxism.
The mechanism by which Adderall causes jaw clenching isn't fully understood, but it's believed that the drug stimulates the brain's reward system by blocking Dopamine reuptake transporters in nerve cells. This results in increased levels of dopamine in the brain and an overall feeling of euphoria and well-being.
The increased amount of dopamine also increases muscle tension, including your jaw muscles. As a result, your jaws may feel tight or clenched while you're taking Adderall or even after you stop taking it if you've developed a tolerance to its effects over time.
Why Do People Take Stimulants Like Adderall?
While there are many risks and dangers of Adderall use, it is continued for treatment, particularly for sleep disorders like narcolepsy, and as an ADHD medication. However, some people use this other than their intended purpose (i.e. as ADHD meds). People rely on Adderall for the following reasons:
- Increased concentration and focus for longer periods
- Improved work/academic performance
- As a stimulant to stay awake during long shifts/night shifts.
- Weight loss
Other Dental Side Affects from Adderall and Stimulants
Some of the common side effects attributed to Adderall abuse include the following:
- headaches
- nausea or vomiting
- diarrhea
- insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
- fever or chills
- increased heart rate and blood pressure
- anxiety
As for other dental side effects attributed to Adderall abuse or misuse, they may include the following:
- "teeth chewing" or bruxism
- sleep apnea (attributed to teeth grinding or bruxism)
- dry mouth (which may lead to the following)
- tooth decay
- cavities
- gum disease
When left unchecked, other more serious side effects may include:
- depression
- aggressive behavior
- serious cardiovascular problems or sudden death
- blurred vision
- seizures
When experiencing these side effects, it's best to consult with a doctor to receive proper treatment. For oral health issues attributed to prescribed Adderall use, you may want to also consult with a dentist, especially those specializing in lower teeth issues to control the side effect and conditions you are experiencing from teeth grinding.
What Helps Adderall Jaw Clenching?
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to help with symptoms such as teeth grinding or jaw clenching attributed to Adderall abuse. Here are the following:
Botox injections
These are used as muscle relaxants for people suffering from bruxism or teeth grinding. Although it is mostly used for cosmetic purposes such as wrinkle reduction, it can help alleviate jaw pain which could reduce migraines caused by jaw grinding.
Mouth guard
You can wear a mouth guard to avoid teeth grinding during sleep. When worn and used properly, it may also protect your teeth and control further damage from other oral side effects, such as gum recession and tooth erosion.
Lifestyle Changes
You can improve the quality of your life by simply eating a balanced diet, cutting down, and avoiding nicotine, alcohol, and caffeine altogether. Adequate exercise may help with bruxism too. Getting enough restful sleep may also be key in relaxing and helping you heal properly as well.
Meditation and mindfulness exercises
Oftentimes, doctors would also incorporate alternative or natural treatment when dealing with teeth grinding or clenching. As this oral problem may be aggravated by stress, deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques may ease stress and tension which can help someone fix bruxism caused by stimulant misuse.
It's important to find treatment that suits your specific condition. Working with the right healthcare provider is essential to help you become better. For people suffering from addiction and stimulant abuse, sober living may be the best option as there are many options to choose from.
Recovery homes also offer a place of comfort and security for people who are in remission from their addiction problems. These places may prepare them better especially when they transition back to the real world and into their new life post-rehabilitation.
Can Transcend Recovery Community Help with Stimulant Addiction?
Transcend Recovery Community works with trained specialists and healthcare providers in giving the utmost care to people who have long suffered from substance abuse. We believe that through a holistic approach that involves medical, spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional support, we can give individuals a second chance in life.
Our transitional housing options are best for people who are either currently receiving treatment or have just finished their rehabilitation program. Together, we can work in achieving sobriety one step at a time.
Contact us today and let our Recovery Specialists help you with the right program that would fit your mental health needs.
