Oral Health Effects of Marijuana: An Overview

Introduction:

Marijuana, sometimes known as weed, pot, or cannabis, has become more widely accepted and used in recent years for both therapeutic and recreational uses. As a result of the growing legalization of cannabis in states across the United States for both medical and recreational purposes, there has been a noticeable rise in the usage of cannabis in recent years. Research and discussion on its possible advantages and disadvantages are ongoing, but one aspect that needs consideration is its effects on dental health. Since there has been an upsurge in the use of marijuana and its product, dental professionals can expect to see an increasing number of patients who may have a variety of marijuana-related negative oral effects.

What Are the Oral Health Effects of Marijuana?

Cannabis use, especially marijuana smoking, has been linked to poor oral health; however, the etiology has been complicated by the numerous associated factors. These include poor oral hygiene practices, infrequent dental check-ups, and simultaneous use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

• Xerostomia - Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a condition that is frequently linked to cannabis use. Dry mouth symptoms persist even after one to six hours of using marijuana. Many oral problems worsen as a result of persistent or extended dry mouth. Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is one of the main psychoactive ingredients in marijuana and is well-known for increasing hunger. Due to such hunger prangs, cannabis users may end up eating foods that are heavy in sugars and carbohydrates, which might cause tooth cavities (caries). Cannabis users usually have a much higher prevalence of cavities when compared to the non-users.

• Candidiasis - Oral candidiasis is a fungal infection that is found more commonly in cannabis users than in non-users, possibly due to the immunosuppressive effects of the drug. The elevated risk may be due to the presence of hydrocarbons in the cannabis, which can act as an energy house for Candida albicans. As a result, there may be more denser Candida colonies in the oral cavity. It is also important to remember that cannabis users frequently have poor oral hygiene habits, which can encourage the colonization of Candida and hasten the onset of candidiasis. Recent studies have suggested that marijuana sharing leads to its contamination and, hence, may lead to the transfer of viable bacteria. The development of microbes in this oral environment may be further aggravated by this transmission, raising the possibility of oral candidiasis.

• Leukoedema - Cannabis users are more likely to develop leukoedema than non-users. However, it is still unclear if the drug itself or related irritants such as smoke absorbed orally have a role in leukoedema development. Marijuana smoking has been associated with many oral health problems, such as leukoplakia, erythroplakia, gingival enlargement, or "cannabis stomatitis," which is characterized by persistent inflammation of the oral mucosa with hyperkeratosis. This condition has a high chance of developing into malignancy. Research has shown that tobacco and cannabis, when used together, may have an additive or synergistic effect, raising the risk of oral and neck cancer in users of both substances. Furthermore, there may be a higher risk of getting cancer in the oral and neck regions due to the immunosuppressive effects of cannabis, particularly when combined with oral papillomavirus in smokers.

• Periodontal Disease - Numerous researchers have discovered a direct correlation between cannabis use, or marijuana, and periodontal disease, which is characterized by problems with the gums. Regular cannabis users are more prone to experience gum disease. They frequently have a loss of connection between their gums and teeth as well as deeper gum pockets. Furthermore, compared to those who do not use marijuana and also experience gum difficulties, marijuana users may experience these problems earlier in life.

What Is the Importance of Communication With the Dental Team While Using Marijuana?

• If a person is a regular user of cannabis or marijuana, it is important that they convey this information properly and honestly to their dentist. Telling them about cannabis use is necessary for providing good and appropriate dental treatment. The dentist can provide advice on how to avoid gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues that are particular to cannabis users.

• It is also important to inform the dentist about marijuana usage use because dental operations frequently require an anesthetic that contains epinephrine, which can have fatal effects if the patient has recently smoked marijuana. By being open and honest with dental professionals, they can make sure that their dentists treat them safely, appropriately, and with care that is customized to meet their individual needs. This makes dental visits safer and more comfortable.

What Are the Challenges Faced by the Dentists?

It can be difficult to provide dental treatment to patients who are high on marijuana. Cannabis usage is linked to elevated levels of anxiety, paranoia, and hyperactivity, all of which might exacerbate tension during dental visits. Moreover, the use of epinephrine in local anesthetics may be potentially fatal due to the accelerated heart rate and cardiorespiratory effects of marijuana. Patients could be reluctant to admit to using marijuana, which makes it challenging for the dentist to accurately determine intoxication. It can be helpful to determine whether a patient using cannabis is doing so for therapeutic purposes, as this knowledge may be relevant to their general health.

Dental professionals should follow the below guidelines for patient treatment if they suspect cannabis use:

• Asking about cannabis usage while performing a thorough oral examination.

• Stressing the significance of routine dental check-ups and maintaining proper oral hygiene habits.

• Making them understand the use of wholesome, nutrient-dense snacks rather than sweet, calorie-dense ones.

• Using preventative steps like topical fluorides.

• Treating xerostomia if required while encouraging them to quit alcohol.

• Educate patients about modifications to applicable regulations on cannabis use for medical or recreational purposes.

How to Maintain Oral Health While Using Marijuana?

• It is essential to maintain good at-home oral hygiene practices to avoid pain, loss of periodontal bone, and irreversible tooth loss. These procedures are essential to dental care, as are the advantages of fluoride, which can be found in toothpaste and tap water. Frequent dental examinations are necessary because they enable medical practitioners to identify and treat problems early. A good diet helps maintain a healthy mouth and supports general health. Before going to bed, brushing and flossing encourage saliva flow, which helps to avoid dry mouth, a typical problem linked to marijuana usage.

• It is critical to communicate honestly and openly with the dentist. It guarantees that certain marijuana-related issues can be managed and that personalized guidance can be given to such patients.

Conclusion:

For many marijuana users, especially those who use it frequently, the consequences on oral health are a major matter of concern. When consuming cannabis, one should take into account many issues, such as dry mouth, gum disease, tooth decay, and dietary modifications. Marijuana users can better safeguard their dental health by being proactive in addressing these issues. It is crucial to remember that each person will react differently to marijuana’s effects on oral health. Any questions regarding maintaining dental health should be directed to the dentist. Lastly, awareness, moderation, and proper oral hygiene practices can all help a marijuana user to keep their mouth healthy while smoking them.