If you weren't already aware, Canada recently legalized marijuana, and although this may be a cause for celebration, it is also an opportune time to point out how this, now legalized drug, effects oral health. It's probably common knowledge that tobacco can produce unsightly stains on your teeth and also contribute to gum disease and tooth loss, but did you know you could suffer a similar fate by smoking cannabis? There is a great debate concerning marijuana and the negative effects it has on oral health.
Dry Mouth and Increased Sensitivity
As most smokers will attest, cannabis can cause cotton-mouth, which is caused by salivary glands that can't produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moistened. In addition to being unpleasant, a cotton-mouth can result in cavities since there is not enough saliva to wash away plaque and food particles. The lack of saliva may also cause the enamel on your teeth to deteriorate, causing them to become not only worn but also more sensitive. That being said, saliva production is essential when it comes to healthy teeth and gums and tobacco, as well as cannabis, can severely disrupt its production.
Cannabis and Periodontal Disease
Although we have touched on this briefly, cannabis can lead to periodontitis, gum disease, which is often caused by smoke that has come in contact with the soft tissue in your mouth. Introducing smoke to the oral cavity can cause your gums to become inflamed and ultimately break down, but the extent of the damage does not stop there. In extreme cases, cannabis smokers may suffer damage to the tongue, lips, cheeks, and roof of the mouth. For those with dental implants, smoking may cause them to become detached. All in all, there is no part of the oral cavity that is impervious to the effects of smoking.
Oral Cancer
Cannabis legalization in Canada is expected to add $4 billion to country's economy, but this will probably pale in comparison to the financial strain placed on those needing medical/dental care as a result of smoking. To that point, smoking marijuana has been shown to cause stomatitis, a condition that results in damage to the lining of the mouth and ultimately leads to oral cancer. It should be noted that treating the damage caused to the lining of the mouth is painful, but even worse, it can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Stained Teeth
Just like tobacco, marijuana can lead to lead to stained teeth; although this may not be as life changing as other dental problems, stained teeth can be unsightly and may suggest to others that you have poor oral hygiene habits. To further emphasize this point, heavy marijuana use can cause teeth to become worn and appear yellow. The combination of stained teeth and bad breath, which is caused by a lack of saliva, can really be a turn off to others. So although cannabis in Canada is legal, it would probably be a good idea to avoid it.
Why to Avoid Marijuana Before a Dental Appointment
Many dentists have warned that the local anesthetics used during most dental procedures can cause a dangerous drug interaction if marijuana is still present in the patient's system. In fact, many dentists have warned that these interactions can lead to an increased heart rate, which could contribute to other health problems. If you're a chronic smoker, it would be a good idea to inform your dentist before the start of any procedure.
Why Smokers Should Be Seen by a Dentist Regularly
Given the effects that tobacco and marijuana use has on teeth, it would be a good idea to schedule regular dental exams if you insist on smoking. Regular dental exams can help detect problems early, which can protect you against tooth loss. If you live in the Ottawa area, visit the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre located in South Ottawa. Our practitioners are well aware of the effects of cannabis, and as such, they will know what to look for when assessing your oral health. So if you're a smoker it is especially important to have routine dental checkups, contact us to book an appointment today. Whether you’re a daily marijuana smoker or just an occasional smoker, make sure to understand the risks of marijuana on your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.
