With more people using cannabis than ever, questions are swirling about the plant’s long-term health effects. While most headlines as of late focus on weed and the brain, lungs, or heart, a new study on oral health has some heads turning.
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Researchers from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine uncovered a potential link between cannabis use and cavities. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, relied on a cross-sectional study that analyzed data from participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The researchers examined self-reported information submitted by 5,656 people aged 18 to 59 between 2015 through 2018.
The study’s authors discovered that “frequent recreational cannabis” use was linked to a “17 percent higher chance of having untreated coronal caries (cavities), 55 percent higher odds of root surface caries and 41 percent higher odds of severe tooth loss compared with patients who did not smoke.” The paper defined frequent cannabis use as smoking flower or hashish at least once a month for 12 months.
Cross-sectional studies are limited as they cannot definitely prove causation—they simply highlight potential links. However, anecdotal reports suggest there may be some truth in the study.
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“I am seeing increased dental caries in my patients who use cannabis products,” Dr. Thomas Hoover, a dental surgeon and periodontist, told GreenState.
“Cannabis does cause dry mouth (xerostomia),” Hoover noted. “That dryness is a breeding ground for cavity-causing activity. It’s not only smoking but edibles as well. We unfortunately know very little about the effects of cannabis on periodontal disease.”
When left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss, and, in rare cases, death. Dental work can also be costly, meaning preventing issues before they start is key.
Hoover said that dental professionals do recommend consumers brush their teeth after smoking, admitting the request is impractical. He recommended prescription fluoride toothpaste for heavy smokers and increased water intake. A product called Xylimelts can also help in times of extreme dry mouth.
Despite potential risks, cannabis can make a world of difference for medical patients or simply ease stress and create more joy. By understanding ways to prevent any possible issues caused by consumption, fans of the plant can rest easy the next time they imbibe.
