Using cannabis can have a serious impact on your oral health.
- Long-term cannabis use can lead to chronic dryness in the mouth, which can dramatically increase the rate of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Dry mouth can increase the risk of oral infections such as candidiasis, also known as thrush or yeast.
- Cannabis can stain teeth and soft tissue in the mouth.
- The high temperature of marijuana smoke has been linked to changes in oral tissue and, over time, this can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer.
- Edible forms of cannabis can be particularly dangerous as the level of THC in the product is difficult to control and the impact of the drug is long-lasting.
Tell your dentist if you use cannabis. Using cannabis (in any form) before a dental procedure can negatively affect the type and amount of medication or sedation you require, increase bleeding, and complicate your ability to heal.
Patient information sheet: Cannabis & Dental Procedures (PDF)
