Cannabis has been around since 3000 BC and could possibly date back even further. The plant is known for its numerous uses in manufacturing various products and its psychoactive effects. It can help with the symptoms of certain conditions such as glaucoma, nausea, chronic pain, inflammation, MS and epilepsy. Many consumers use it to help with anxiety and depression.
Cannabis became illegal in the early 1900’s as it was considered to be a narcotic. On October 17, 2018 Canada legalized the use of recreational cannabis consumption with each province and territory adopting their own system to oversee the sale and distribution of it. In March of 2018, studies showed nearly 300 000 Canadians were using marijuana medically.
Although there continues to be breakthroughs in understanding the vast potential benefits of cannabis use, it’s important to consider the risks as well. Effects of long-term or heavy use include addiction, altered brain development, poor educational outcome, and cognitive impairment including lower IQ in those who used frequently as adolescents, diminished life satisfaction, symptoms of chronic bronchitis and increased risk of chronic psychosis disorder in people who have a predisposition to these conditions. It may also trigger schizophrenia in people who are more predisposed to the disease. There is also a concern that marijuana use may have a role as a gateway drug to other addictive substances. We still have so much to learn on the subject as the study of the endocannabinoid system is still in its infancy.
There are many effects on oral health that should be considered. Cannabis use has been shown to cause dry mouth due to decreased saliva production which can attribute to increased decay rates since saliva acts as a protectant for your teeth. It can also cause tissue burns, increase candida bacteria counts, cause gingival enlargement and staining. More seriously, cannabis users have an increased risk of periodontal disease, oral infections, oral cancer, gingivitis and bone loss. Much of the research on these risks still does not point to a clear answer on their legitimacy but should not be overlooked.
With the recent legalization of recreational use of cannabis, it is more important than ever to be honest with your dentist and dental hygienist so that they can help you stay healthy and watch for the potential side effects of its use. Always communicate with your dental provider as use of cannabis may affect your dental treatment such as the amount of bleeding that could occur or the amount of anesthetic needed. Dental treatment performed on a patient while they are under the influence may cause feelings of anxiety, dysphoria and paranoia.
While there is still much to learn about cannabis’s effects on our oral and overall health, there are strong signs that it has the potential to help millions of people live more comfortable lives. Always stay informed of the risks and check in with your medical providers regularly to ensure safe use!
Brooke
Registered Dental Hygienist at Chancellor Dental Group
