With the new legislation making cannabis legal, there are more people accessing it. There are certain health issues associated with cannabis usage. Frequent cannabis usage can affect your oral health as well as your overall health. The type and frequency of usage can have different effects on your body. Your dental care provider wants to be able to educate you on risks and how to protect yourself properly.
Do I have to tell my dental professional about my cannabis usage?
Yes, just like any other medicine, supplement or substance you may be taking, your complete medical history involves knowing about your cannabis usage. For your dentist to ensure they are providing the most comprehensive treatment, they need to be aware of your usage. This can aid in proper and early diagnosis of oral health conditions. Usage could also interact with other substances used on the office, and this knowledge will help to provide treatment in the safest and most effective way.
What does cannabis usage have to do with my oral health?
Cannabis usage, particularly smoking can affect the teeth as well as the gums and other tissues in the mouth. The three main areas of concern are oral cancer, dry mouth and periodontal disease. Smoking cannabis, just like cigarettes increases the chances of developing oral cancer. The heat and chemicals from smoke can cause physical damage to the tissues, and also suppress the immune system to fight this damage. Dry mouth is a concern because it increases the risk of cavities. Periodontal disease or disease of the gums, bone and surrounding tissues can start as swollen gums when they are irritated by the heat and chemicals brought into the mouth by smoking. This swelling can cause further damage to the ligaments and bone that support the teeth.
How can cannabis cause more cavities?
Cannabis usage often causes dry mouth because of slower or decreased saliva production. When you have less saliva, the mouth cannot self-cleanse as effectively. Dry teeth collect plaque more easily, which can lead to more tartar formation, more inflammation and a more acidic environment. Cavity-causing bacteria prefer an acidic environment. Cannabis usage often leads to increased appetite which can lead to increased risk of cavities because foods consumed during this “munchies” stage are often high sugar or simple carbohydrates. Cavity-causing bacteria uses sugars from simple carbohydrates to grow.
If I’m eating cannabis products instead of smoking, does it matter?
Other health issues related to marijuana usage include an increased risk of a heart attack in people with underlying heart disease. It can also cause breathing issues, increased anxiety or depression, increased risk of mental health issues, memory loss, reduced physical abilities and can cause harm to developing babies when used by pregnant mothers.
Your dental professionals want to educate and treat you with the best oral care. Having open, honest conversations about your cannabis usage helps them to provide the best care for you and your mouth.