In crisis? Call or text 988 free · confidential · 24/7
Addictions

Freaked Out

Answered by Lita Perna, MA, Family and Community Counseling

Question

I got a shock today when I found out that the guy I am dating who is only 32 has a set of partial dentures. It was awkward to spend the night at his house and find this out for the first time. He opened up to me and told me that he used to do a lot of meth but that he has been clean for more than 18 months and he never wants to do it again. I am freaked out. How bad does a person have to be before they lose their teeth from using meth? He must have been like a total junky right? I am trying to piece together who this guy is.

The best way to ‘piece together who this guy is,’ is to ask him how bad his meth addiction was. Based on what you said, he seems willing to open up to you.

There is no exact determination about how long it takes to develop Meth Mouth. Many factors are involved including his oral hygiene and what shape his teeth were in before he began to use.

Also, many 32 year olds have partials that have never used meth.

Are you ‘freaked ‘out by his partials or by his former meth use? Either one may be a reason for you to decide that this particular guy is not the right one for you.

This is a guy by your description who has been clean for over 18 months. He says he doesn't want to do meth again. He was honest with you.

Someone else may not be 'freaked out' by this man's past or his partial dentures. Someone else may be more understanding, be better for him and accept him as he is now.

Maybe it's best for you to take a pass on this guy.

About the Expert

Lita Perna

MA, Family and Community Counseling

Klamath Falls, United States of America

Specialties

Life Coaching, Addiction or Substance Abuse, Mood Disorders, Domestic Abuse or Domestic Violence, Women, Loss or Grief, Eating Disorders, Depression, Finding Your Purpose in Life

License

my_license #LCPC 180.006720 retired as of 3/2013