CARING FOR PATIENTS WHO CONSUME CANNABIS

The number of registered Medical Marijuana Patients is approximately 2 million. Dental Professionals need to be knowledgeable about cannabis use and its’ effects on oral and systemic health. Cannabis can be consumed in four methods:

1):  Inhalation, 2): Orally, 3): Topically, or 4): Suppositories. 

Medical marijuana can be used for pain management, anxiety, migraines, MS, PTSD, Drug resistant Epilepsy, and many other conditions.  Cannabis use can impact your oral health, including higher tooth decay index, more plaque, poor gingival health, and xerostomia (dry mouth).  Inhaled Cannabis Users are at higher risk of oral cancer. 

Xerostomia is one of the most common adverse effects but listed here are many products available that can help maintain/control the effects of dry mouth:  Closys, Biotene, and Xylitol products.  The first two are mouth rinses, and Zyloitol products include a suger free chewing gum, candy, and actual sugar. 

If you have any questions about Dental Health after using Medical Cannabis, please give Dr. Michael Armijo a call at 505-797-1000.  We are happy to answer any questions about the effects on your Dental Health.