Will Cannabis Make Your Teeth Go to Pot?

Will Cannabis Lead to Tooth Decay?

Let’s face it. They’re one of the first things that people see when they meet you and you want them to look good. At the very least you might like them to stay where they belong. Most people are aware of many of the social and political hot topics that the legalization movement stirs, but how does smoking pot affect your oral health? At a time when the decriminalization and legalization is becoming more common in the United States, users should be made aware of the impact that any form of cannabis has on them, whether it be of benefit or detriment to the human body.

Reports have proliferated over the years relating to the dangers that cannabis plays in the role of dental health, many pointing to quite serious complications. While you’ll likely not appear as the poster child of how drug use relates to tooth rot like some poor soul from a Faces of Meth advert, if you toke up frequently, there are a few things that you need to know. The consensus is by and large that cannabis can lead to periodontal disease. (Also known as gum disease.) Periodontal disease is caused by an inflammatory reaction to a bacterial infection below the gum line, and it can lead to swelling and receding gums. Gingivitis, a buildup uf plaque residue on the teeth are the building blocks and if not treated properly with a good hygiene routine, the next stop is periodontitis. If suffering from periodontitis you may also notice pockets forming in between the guns and the teeth. Once the infection gets beneath your gum line it can destroy tissues, ligaments and bones in the mouth, resulting in tooth loss, facial deformation and speech impediment.

What about cannabis-infused toothpaste? Yes, it has test out very well vs. national brands!

In one study, when compared to study participants who used cannabis less regularly, those who had used it at least once a month for a year demonstrated increased indicators of mild, moderate, and severe periodontal disease. In another study Arizona State University researchers examined the effects of cannabis among people who consumed it for two decades. They followed over 1,000 New Zealanders and not only did they observe things like body weight, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, lung function and blood pressure. But they also measured the changes in dental health. What they found was that regular smokers didn’t usually get a gold star in dental hygiene. Let’s say someone smokes a joint, then the munchies, combined with cotton mouth. They chomp down a bag of M&M’s, guzzle a soda, continue nursing the soda to alleviate their dry mouth. They put off brushing their teeth until later. That’s a bad equation. They also found that even the chronic users, no pun intended, that displayed a healthy dental regime were affected.

Don’t worry though, throw away your stash to save your chompers.

“Saliva is a very important part of preventing tooth decay. It’s why most dentists these days recommend chewing sugarless gum. It helps produce more saliva,” says South Weymouth Dentist Dr. Richard Wolfert, DMD, a Bostonian practitioner. “Without sufficient saliva to wash away food and bacteria from the teeth and gums, xerostomia can cause bad breath and mouth sores.Additionally, a dry mouth promotes tooth decay and possible tooth loss if the decay is not treated properly.”

So what can you do?

There are several ways to prevent the loss of your pearly whites. Stay hydrated. Keep the water closer than the soda. Think about your health a little bit and if you know you’re going to swing by the dispensary, swing by the grocery store first. Line up some healthy snacks for when those munchies kick in instead of eating a bunch of junk later. Make your health a priority. Most dental practitioners recommend brushing at least twice a day. Try to floss at least once a day, more if you can. Swap your toothbrush every three or four months. Even proper storage can play a big role in winning this battle so make sure to store it standing upright, this’ll allow it to dry properly. Don’t cover them with any nifty caps or store them in an enclosed space either- this can help promote the growth of bacteria and one of your teeths best friends.

It may also help to speak to your dentist about your cannabis use. They may be able to help you understand the risks associated with your consumption and help you properly monitor your oral health for any unintended consequences.