Marijuana and dental health have a very strong connection. Marijuana, also known as hashish, pot, or cannabis, is a mixture of crushed dried leaves and flowers of the herb called cannabis sativa. Marijuana use is naturally and socially accepted in many cultures around the world. Research has shown that the consumption of cannabis sativa, a specific derivative of the root and flowers, can be indicated for medicinal purposes in therapeutic treatments for cancer, HIV, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy, among others.
On the other hand, the recreational use of marijuana, which contains psychoactive substances, is due to the relaxing sensation it produces with the objective of escaping from reality and/or managing anxiety situations and not for medicinal or therapeutic purposes. Marijuana can be consumed:
The increase in the consumption of cannabis, together with its legalization in some countries, has put health authorities on alert regarding the side effects it may have not only on general health but also on oral health.
Marijuana consumption is associated with poor oral health. Some of the pathologies triggered are:
It is commonly known as dry mouth, it is the most common effect in marijuana users. This condition is caused by a disorder of the salivary glands that inhibits the production of saliva. This alters the balance of flora and bacteria in the mouth, and when dryness occurs, teeth are exposed to the effect of acids that cause cavities and bad breath.
Saliva is one of the most important components of the mouth, as it helps to break down food and keep the environment moist. It also helps to prevent cavities and destroy bacteria that can affect both the teeth and gums.
Periodontitis is one of the most common chronic diseases, affecting about 46% of the population in the United States. This pathology affects the supporting tissues of the tooth, i.e. the gums, and the alveolar bone, gradually loosening the teeth. In some cases, if the disease is not adequately treated, the teeth can be lost long-term. Periodontitis in advanced stages has been linked to diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
According to research, marijuana consumption causes inflammation of the gums, which can develop into periodontitis.
After trying cannabis, a craving for sweets is generated. As a consequence of consuming this type of food, your dental health will be affected. Even general health is at risk since sugar in excessive amounts leads to various conditions. However, the first part of the body affected, at least visibly, is the teeth. In the oral cavity, sugar is transformed into very powerful acids with the ability to destroy tooth enamel.
Other possible effects linked to the use of marijuana:
Leukoplakia is a condition characterized by the appearance of white spots in any area of the mouth. This is one of the characteristics in the early stages of oral cancer.
If you have any questions about this or other topics, you can contact us at Channel Islands Family Dental as well as our page on Facebook. We look forward to your visit and we will make a timely diagnosis. Our dentists in Oxnard, Santa Paula, Ventura, Newbury Park, and Port Hueneme will be able to guide you toward the best treatment to take care of your health and give you back your best smile.
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