What Is Coke Jaw?

“Coke jaw” is a slang term given to bruxism, one of the lesser-known, long-term side effects of cocaine use. Bruxism involves the involuntary clenching of the jaw, moving the jaw from side to side, and grinding or gnashing the teeth either during sleep or when awake.

What Causes Coke Jaw?

Cocaine is one of the most used illicit drugs in the world. This powerful stimulant acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to produce some of the same effects as adrenaline. Cocaine is sold as a white crystalline powder, which may be snorted, smoked, or dissolved in water and injected.

When a person uses cocaine, the body responds with an elevated heart rate and blood pressure. The bronchioles in the lungs, which are the smallest pathways that carry air from the lungs to the alveoli, or small air sacs, become dilated and cause breathing to quicken.

While under the influence of cocaine, the body also experiences vasoconstriction, or tightening of the blood vessels. Blood vessel constriction is normal to an extent and plays a role in maintaining regular bodily functions. However, cocaine abuse can cause blood vessels to constrict to dangerous levels, which can starve vital organs of oxygen, according to research published by Atherosclerosis. Nearly all organs, from the heart and stomach, to the kidneys, liver, and skin, can suffer serious harm as a result.

When a person snorts cocaine, specifically, blood vessels in the nose and mouth constrict. Over time, these blood vessels will start to narrow, causing reduced blood flow to the nasal cavities. This can lead to congestion, nosebleeds, and breathing problems.

Coke jaw is a direct result of blood flow restriction in this area, coupled with CNS stimulation. These factors cause heightened tension and hyperactivity in the jaw region that is uncontrollable.

The more cocaine a person uses, the more severe their bruxism may be. Coke jaw may also worsen with the regular use of cocaine and alcohol together.

How Long Does Coke Jaw Last?

Without intervention, coke jaw will not heal on its own. Its severity depends on personal factors such as how long the person has been using cocaine, the dosage, alcohol use, and the extent of damage caused.

The only way to stop experiencing coke jaw is to stop using cocaine, and even still, it will take time. Some people may see an improvement within a few weeks of quitting, while others may experience symptoms for months or years.

Health Problems Associated With Coke Jaw

Coke jaw is a problem in itself, but it can also trigger additional health complications affecting the mouth, face, and head.

Some of the many health issues that can result from coke jaw include:

• chipped, cracked, loose, worn-down, and/or sensitive teeth
• clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the jaw
• dry mouth
• gum disease
• facial pain
• headaches
• muscle tension, soreness, and/or limited range of motion in the jaw
• reduced saliva production
• temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain
• tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
• tooth loss
• wearing away of the tooth enamel

Coke jaw also puts people at a higher risk of oral sores, blisters, lesions, or other infections. These complications make it difficult to eat, drink, and speak comfortably, and can segue into further health issues.

Coke Jaw And Coke Mouth

Coke jaw is serious on its own, but it’s also often just one aspect of “coke mouth,” a range of oral conditions that are caused by cocaine abuse. The main symptom of coke mouth is perforation of the oral palate, or a hole in the roof of the mouth.

Symptoms of perforation of the oral palate include:

• anosmia (loss of smell)
• bleeding from the roof of the mouth
• difficulty eating or swallowing
• frequent sinus infections
• halitosis (bad breath)
• headache
• nasal regurgitation (swallowed liquid or food that comes back up and enters the nose)

Other Side Effects Of Cocaine Abuse

Coke jaw is one of many side effects of cocaine abuse. Long-term cocaine abuse can affect every major organ in the body.

Some of the other side effects of cocaine addiction include:

• heart complications, e.g., changes in heart rhythm, heart attack, etc.
• gastrointestinal issues, e.g., abdominal pain, perforation, etc.
• liver and kidney damage
• hypertension
• insomnia
• lung problems, e.g., chest pain and respiratory failure
• neurological effects, e.g., strokes and seizures
• psychosis
• reduced gray matter, which regulates movement, memory, and emotions
• weight loss

Excessive cocaine use can also cause psychological issues such as aggression, depression, paranoia, restlessness, and anhedonia, or the inability to feel pleasure.

Cocaine Addiction Treatment Options

The only way to treat coke jaw is to stop using cocaine. It sounds like a simple solution, but long-term recovery from cocaine addiction often requires professional treatment.

When cocaine is used for a prolonged period of time, it often becomes a coping mechanism for difficult emotions and experiences. The person also becomes accustomed to the rituals of drug use and may develop a routine around it. Cocaine tolerance also increases over time, meaning that the person will need more frequent or larger doses to achieve the same initial effects. These dynamics are not addressed simply by quitting, but by receiving treatment.

Even if a person can stop using cocaine on their own for a short period of time, without treatment, it’s much more likely that they’ll begin using again.

The good news is, many evidence-based treatment options exist today that can help you or your loved one achieve lasting recovery from cocaine addiction.

Cocaine Withdrawal Management

Detox programs provide a safe and secure environment during withdrawal, offering medical intervention if necessary.

They also often serve as an introduction to addiction counseling or therapy and connect clients with further treatment once detox is complete.

Inpatient Or Outpatient Treatment

Following detox, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation can equip people with the tools to address the root cause of their substance use and learn how to live a sober, healthy lifestyle.

This might include evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and 12-step groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery.

After treatment is completed, these programs may offer aftercare services, including alumni programs, for continued support.

When the goal is long-term recovery, treatment is the best route to take.

Help For Cocaine Addiction Is Available

If you or a loved one is dealing with an addiction to cocaine and is interested in evidence-based treatment, call Spring Hill Recovery Center today to learn about our treatment programs.