Marijuana and Oral Health

Marijuana, also known as weed or cannabis, has become one of the most widely used substances for both medical and recreational purposes worldwide. As more places legalize its use, the number of people using marijuana has risen sharply. While many people are familiar with its relaxing effects, fewer are aware of how marijuana can impact oral health. This post breaks down the basics, helping you understand how marijuana affects the mouth, teeth, and gums—and why your dentist needs to know if you use it.

What Happens in the Mouth When You Use Marijuana?

Marijuana contains active compounds like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which interact with receptors in the body, including those in the mouth. These receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain, inflammation, and even saliva production. When you smoke or ingest marijuana, it comes into direct contact with your mouth’s tissues, including the tongue, gums, and salivary glands. So, how can marijuana use affect oral health?

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

One of the most common effects of marijuana use is dry mouth. THC reduces saliva production, which can leave your mouth feeling dry and uncomfortable. Saliva plays a critical role in neutralizing acids and protecting teeth, so its absence increases the risk of tooth decay (Cuba, Salum, Cherubini, & Figueiredo, 2017).

Increased Risk of Cavities

People who use marijuana often experience higher plaque buildup due to poor oral hygiene. Dry mouth exacerbates this by allowing bacteria to flourish, leading to more cavities and tooth decay. Studies indicate that marijuana users have more decayed, missing, or filled teeth compared to non-users (Cho, Hirsch, Johnstone, & Zhang, 2021).

Gum Disease (Periodontitis)

Research suggests a potential connection between marijuana use and gum disease. Chronic use may lead to gum inflammation, gingivitis, and eventually periodontitis, where gums recede, and teeth may loosen or fall out (Shariff, Ahluwalia, & Hughes, 2017). Although some studies show conflicting results, the link between chronic inflammation and marijuana is still under investigation.

Oral Cancer Risk

Marijuana smoke contains carcinogens similar to tobacco smoke. Long-term use may increase the risk of oral cancer, though research on this is not yet conclusive. Some studies suggest a heightened risk for users who start young or combine marijuana with tobacco (Meier, Caspi, & Moffitt, 2012).

Oral Soft Tissue Issues

Marijuana can cause irritation and inflammation of the oral soft tissues, resulting in conditions such as cannabis stomatitis. Users may experience whitish patches or a burning sensation in the mouth (Cuba, Salum, Cherubini, & Figueiredo, 2017).

Why Dentists Need to Know About Marijuana Use

It’s important to be honest with your dentist about your marijuana use. Dry mouth, gum inflammation, and other side effects can affect dental treatments. For example, reduced saliva can make it harder to detect cavities early, and smoking can slow healing after dental procedures. Understanding your habits allows your dentist to tailor care to your needs, potentially offering treatments like saliva substitutes or recommending more frequent cleanings.

As marijuana use becomes more widespread, it’s crucial to understand its effects on oral health. While more research is needed, it’s clear that marijuana can impact the mouth in significant ways. Being proactive about your dental care and communicating openly with your dentist can help minimize risks and keep your smile healthy.