You know that comprehensive oral health includes visiting your dentist for exams and teeth cleanings. Yet, when it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, patients should consider how all of their habits could play a role. While tobacco is a known contributing factor to diseases like periodontitis and oral cancer, many patients don’t associate cannabis with the same risks. As more and more states legalize the drug for recreational use, it’s important to be mindful of the impact it could have on your teeth and gums.

3 Ways Cannabis Can Affect Dental Wellness

1. Increases Periodontal Disease Risk

Recently, the American Dental Association® (ADA) revealed a link between smoking marijuana and periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis. A severe form of gum disease, periodontitis damages the gums, and in its worst form, can lead to tooth and bone loss. The disease could also be a risk factor for larger health conditions, including coronary artery disease and stroke. While regular teeth cleanings do help minimize most patients’ risk of periodontal disease, smokers have twice the risk for all forms of gum disease than non-smokers.

2. Raises Risk of Mouth & Neck Cancer

The ADA also warns that smoking cannabis can increase the risk of mouth and neck cancers. Although frequently overlooked, cannabis shares many of the same carcinogens as tobacco. Thus, smoking it regularly can lead to many of the same cancer risks tobacco smokers face. While medical marijuana can be administered in forms other than smoking, research on potential long- and short-term risks of these applications is still in its infancy.

3. Produces Uncomfortable Symptoms

In addition to the serious concerns raised above, cannabis use can also cause unfavorable dental conditions. For one, it is associated with xerostomia, or absence of saliva leading to dry mouth. It can also cause leukoplakia, which is characterized by thick, white patches in the mouth which even the most thorough teeth cleanings can’t eradicate. While most of the patches are noncancerous, they should always be assessed by a dentist, as some may show early signs of cancer.

It’s important to discuss your lifestyle habits with your dentist so they can develop the best course of preventive treatment for your needs. For smokers and other at-risk parties, more frequent teeth cleanings and exams may be needed to minimize the likelihood of gum disease and watch for any emerging signs of serious oral health conditions.

If you’re seeking a dental clinic where all patients are welcome, look no further than Family First Dentistry in Anchorage, AK. Offering comprehensive preventive care services including teeth cleanings and exams as well as emergency and restorative treatments, this family dental practice gets to know each patient by name and is dedicated to providing a comfortable, welcoming environment for all. Discover more about their broad range of services on their website or call (907) 562-2820 to schedule an appointment.