Study Finds Frequent Cannabis Smoking May Harm Oral Health

Key Takeaways:

• Frequent recreational cannabis use is linked to a higher risk of cavities, root surface caries, and severe tooth loss, according to a study by Ellyce Clonan, DDS.
• The research highlights the role of dry mouth, sugary foods, and poor oral hygiene habits as contributing factors.
• Data was self-reported, potentially underestimating cannabis use, and further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm causality.

---

Cannabis Use and Oral Health: A Growing Concern

A recent study conducted by Ellyce Clonan, DDS, from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, has uncovered a potential link between frequent recreational cannabis (FRC) use and dental health issues such as cavities, root surface caries, and severe tooth loss. Published on Cannabis Science and Technology, the findings shed light on an underexplored area of dental research, particularly as cannabis use continues to rise across various demographics in the United States.

Clonan’s interest in this topic stemmed from her observations during her Dental Public Health Residency Program at Jacobi Medical Center in Bronx, New York. “I saw a gap in the dental research compared with the medical field,” she noted, explaining her decision to pursue the study.

Methodology: A Comprehensive Cross-Sectional Approach

To gather data for the study, Clonan utilized a cross-sectional design based on information from 5,656 participants aged 18-59, with an average age of 39. These individuals were part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which was sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) between 2015 and 2018.

Participants who reported smoking cannabis at least once a month for over a year demonstrated a 17% higher likelihood of developing cavities. Additionally, they faced a 55% increased risk of root surface caries and a 41% chance of experiencing severe tooth loss compared to non-users.

“The surveys only focused on smoking cannabis, not other use such as edibles,” Clonan clarified. She emphasized that smoking cannabis poses specific risks to oral health, as it can cause dry mouth—a condition known to contribute to tooth decay. “When you smoke cannabis, you’re literally putting fire near your mouth, which is never good. Saliva protects you from dental caries.”

Contributing Factors Beyond Cannabis Use

The study also identified additional lifestyle factors associated with cannabis use that may exacerbate dental health risks. Sugary foods and drinks, along with high-fat snacks, are often consumed more frequently under the influence of cannabis. Poor brushing habits while intoxicated may further compound these effects.

These findings align with broader trends showing rising cannabis consumption among diverse age groups. According to a report cited in the Journal of the Medical Association (JAMA), cannabis use among adults aged 65 and older increased by 75% over a three-year period. Similarly, a 2023 study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse revealed record-high levels of past-year and daily marijuana use among young adults aged 19-30.

Limitations and the Need for Further Research

While the study provides valuable insights, its reliance on self-reported data introduces potential limitations. Participants may have underreported their cannabis use due to regional stigma or privacy concerns. “Someone in New York might be more forthcoming compared to someone in Alabama who might worry about who is looking at the survey,” Clonan explained.

Moreover, Clonan stressed that the study represents only a snapshot in time, making it difficult to establish definitive cause-and-effect relationships. “This recent study was just a snapshot in time, so we can’t completely determine cause and effect of the cannabis use and the caries and tooth loss,” she stated. “More research is definitely needed.”

Balancing Education and Compassion

Clonan emphasized that the goal of her research is not to vilify cannabis but to educate patients about its potential oral health risks. “Yes, we want to educate our patients about the dangers of smoking, but we want to treat their use with kindness and understanding,” she said. “The results of the survey also indicate we need to tailor our advice.”

She pointed out that cannabis serves as a therapeutic agent for numerous conditions, including cancer and anxiety. Therefore, healthcare providers should approach discussions about cannabis use with sensitivity and awareness of its medical benefits.

Future Directions: Toward Longitudinal Insights

Looking ahead, Clonan aims to conduct a longitudinal study involving additional surveys and interviews with participants. This would allow researchers to delve deeper into the connection between cannabis use and oral health outcomes over time. Such efforts could provide clearer guidance for both dental professionals and patients navigating the complexities of cannabis use.

In conclusion, while the study underscores significant associations between frequent cannabis use and dental health risks, it also highlights the importance of addressing these findings within a broader context of patient care and ongoing research. As Clonan aptly summarized, “We need to balance education with empathy and continue exploring this important area of public health.”