A new study has found a troubling connection between frequent cannabis use and oral health issues, including cavities and severe tooth loss. The study, led by Ellyce Clonan, a clinical assistant professor at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, highlights the oral health risks associated with smoking cannabis.
Clonan noticed a pattern while working at Jacobi Medical Center in Bronx, New York, where many patients who claimed not to smoke would admit to using cannabis after tooth extraction instructions, revealing a hidden truth. This observation sparked her interest in researching the potential effects of cannabis on dental health.
The study analyzed data from 5,656 adults aged 18-59 who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2015 and 2018, sponsored by the CDC. The results showed a striking association: individuals who smoked cannabis at least once a month for over a year had a significantly higher risk of dental issues compared to non-users. Specifically, they had:
- 17% higher odds of untreated coronal caries (cavities)
- 55% higher odds of root surface caries
- 41% higher odds of severe tooth loss
Clonan attributes this heightened risk to a few factors. Smoking cannabis leads to dry mouth, which reduces saliva production. Since saliva plays a crucial role in protecting against tooth decay, its absence can accelerate dental issues. Additionally, cannabis users often consume high-fat, sugary snacks or drinks, further exacerbating the risk of cavities. Poor brushing habits while under the influence of cannabis could also contribute to these problems.
While Clonan acknowledges the importance of educating patients on the risks of smoking cannabis, she is also careful not to demonize its use. Cannabis has therapeutic potential for conditions like cancer and anxiety, and she advocates for treating cannabis users with kindness and understanding. Her advice for cannabis smokers includes staying hydrated, eating meals in one sitting rather than snacking throughout the day, avoiding sugary foods, and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Clonan’s study also emphasizes the need for more research in this area. Since cannabis use has skyrocketed in states where it is legalized, it is crucial to further investigate its long-term effects on oral health. Clonan hopes to conduct a longitudinal study in the future to better understand the cause-and-effect relationship between cannabis use and dental issues.
To improve care for cannabis users, Clonan suggests that dental professionals include questions about cannabis use on intake forms and provide tailored advice to their patients. As the use of cannabis continues to rise, it’s important for providers to recognize and address its potential impact on oral health.
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