Can Methadone and Suboxone Destroy Dental Health?

Most myths are initially formed around a small grain of truth. That’s certainly true when it comes to one of the most prevalent methadone and Suboxone myths: Use of these opiate medications will cause aggressive tooth decay. For those relying on methadone or Suboxone as a means of medication-assisted recovery, separating fact from fiction is extremely important.

Opiates and Tooth Decay

Methadone is one of the oldest and widely used medications for the treatment of opiate addiction. While several myths surround the use of methadone, one of the most common is that the medication adversely affects dental health.

Unfortunately, this is one myth that’s rooted in truth. Methadone can cause a certain amount of tooth decay, but no more than any other opiate. And certainly nothing compared to the dental damage done by methamphetamines, sometimes referred to as meth-mouth.

It’s an often-ignored side effect, but opiate medications commonly cause a serious reduction in the amount of saliva that is produced by a healthy mouth. Naturally, the lack of oral moisture leads to dry mouth. And thanks to the continued lack of saliva, people experience increased plaque and dental bacteria, creating a perfect environment for tooth decay and the dreaded “methadone teeth.”

Does Suboxone Rot Your Teeth?

In terms of what drugs cause tooth decay, Suboxone is not a regular offender. When compared to methadone, Suboxone (buprenorphine and naloxone) has a different chemical makeup. It is a partial opiate and is not believed to cause a significant reduction of saliva in the mouth. Even with long-term use, fewer people report seeing an increase in Suboxone-related tooth decay.

Why Is Dry Mouth Dangerous?

People often wonder what drugs make your teeth rot when the primary cause is actually dry mouth. Saliva plays an important role in dental health. Despite the fact that it seems like a simple bodily fluid, saliva does much more than keep the mouth moisturized. A few of the valuable benefits are:

• Helping to properly digest food.
• Protecting the teeth from decay.
• Preventing infection by controlling harmful bacteria in the mouth.
• Making it possible for people to chew and swallow food.

How to Avoid the Negative Methadone Effects on Teeth

Though methadone (and Suboxone to some extent) increases the risk of tooth decay, users aren’t condemned to a life of poor dental health. Here are some simple preventative steps:

• Chew sugar-free gum (preferably with xylitol) to counteract the mouth-drying effects of opioid medications and help stimulate saliva.
• Rinse your mouth with water after eating or after taking your methadone dose to remove sugars and acids that can cling to teeth.
• Floss at least twice a day to prevent plaque buildup in areas brushing can’t reach.
• Brush up to four times per day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure to avoid gum irritation.
• Use antiseptic or fluoride mouthwashes up to four times per day to reduce bacteria and strengthen enamel.
• Choose alcohol-free formulas to avoid worsening dry mouth.
• Sip water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated and reduce acidity.
• Limit sugary drinks and snacks, especially if you experience persistent dry mouth.
• Use a humidifier at night if dry mouth is worse while sleeping.
• See a dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups, and ask about fluoride varnish or prescription-strength toothpaste for added cavity protection.

Methadone and Suboxone are powerful, lifesaving tools in opioid recovery, even if dental concerns arise along the way. If you’re worried about your oral health or want guidance on managing side effects, talking with a professional can help. And if you’re seeking additional support, Recovery.com makes it easy to find compassionate providers who understand your journey.