Marijuana And Gum Disease

With the legalization of recreational marijuana use in Massachusetts implemented last December, it is important to consider the effect that cannabis can have on your oral health. A recent study published in the JAMA Psychiatry found that 56.6% of 38-year-old participants who had been smoking marijuana for 15 to 20 years exhibited more symptoms of gum disease in comparison to 13.5% of their nonsmoking counterparts.

The Links Between Marijuana And Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by the bacteria present in plaque, the sticky film that constantly forms on teeth. When plaque is not removed, it can harden and become calculus, which cannot be brushed away by a regular toothbrush. Plaque and calculus are dangerous to your oral health. They can cause erosion when left on the teeth, which may lead to cavities and gum disease.

The effects of marijuana smoke and cigarette smoke are somewhat comparable. By now, most people can recognize the negative health impacts of cigarette smoking. Smoking tobacco has been linked to lung cancer, emphysema and blood clots. So, it’s no surprise that smoking can have adverse effects on the teeth and gums as well. Smoking can:

• Increase the presence of calculus buildup.
• Weaken the bones in the body and the mouth.
• Decrease the flow of saliva.

While cannabis itself is less harmful to the teeth and gums than tobacco, chemicals in the smoke decrease the flow of saliva, causing dry mouth. Without enough saliva to wash away food and bacteria, a dry mouth can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, both tobacco and marijuana smoke contain chemicals that are harmful to the gums. When inhaled directly, the high temperature of marijuana smoke can harm the oral tissues.

Marijuana smokers are less likely to perform proper dental care as well, the study suggests. Brushing at least twice per day, flossing once and adequate hydration are critical to maintaining a healthy mouth. Regular cannabis users who do not practice good oral hygiene may develop tooth and gum disease.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a common condition in which the gums become swollen, sore or infected. Many adults have the disease to a degree and will experience it at least once throughout their lifetime. If the condition worsens and is left untreated, the jaw may become damaged and allow small spaces to open up between the gums and the teeth. This causes pain, bad breath, and tooth loosening or complete loss.

Symptoms Of Gum Disease

Gum disease is often hard to catch, as symptoms frequently do not appear until an advanced stage. Warning signs of the condition may include the following:

• Inflamed, red or tender gums and other mouth pain.
• Bleeding while brushing, flossing or eating hard foods.
• Receding gums or gums that are pulling away from the teeth, causing teeth to appear longer.
• Loose or separating teeth.
• Sores in the mouth.
• Pus between gums and teeth.
• Halitosis.
• A shift in the bite or the way the teeth fit together.
• A shift in the fit of partial dentures.

Stages of Gum Disease

• Gingivitis – This early stage of gum disease is characterized by the inflammation of the gums, caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. Symptoms include redness or swelling of the gums and/or bleeding while brushing and flossing. At this stage, the bone and connective tissue holding the teeth in place are not affected, so the disease can be reversed.
• Periodontitis – At this stage of the disease, the gums and connective tissue are irreversibly damaged. Pockets below the gum line have begun to form, which allows plaque to grow within the gums. Professional periodontal therapy and improved oral hygiene can usually prevent further damage to the tissue and bone.
• Advanced Periodontitis – The fibers and bones of the teeth are destroyed at this advanced stage of gum disease, which can cause the teeth to shift or loosen. This can impact the ability to eat and communicate. If periodontal therapy can’t save the damaged teeth, the patient may require dental extraction.

What Can I Do To Prevent Gum Disease If I Am A Regular Marijuana Smoker?

There are plenty of ways to stop gum disease if you use cannabis for medical or recreational purposes:

• Practice healthy habits – Brushing and flossing each day and choosing water over sugary drinks or coffee are some of the best things that you can do to maintain a healthy mouth.
• Choose alternative forms of marijuana use – While edible cannabis is still linked with poor dental hygiene, it provides an alternative to the more dangerous smoke.
• Visit your dentist regularly – Inform your dentist that you are a regular cannabis user and discuss your options. Regular teeth cleanings and periodontal exams can potentially prevent, reverse or stop the spread of gum disease and tooth decay.

What If I Suspect That I Have Gum Disease?

If you think that you are at risk for gum disease, make an appointment with Dr. Alwazzan in Weston today so that we can devise a proper treatment plan that suits your condition.