Blog Highlights
- Those who smoke cannabis regularly are far more likely to develop gum disease
- Periodontitis often leads to very uncomfortable and costly problems as it progresses and as you age
- Speak to your dentist immediately if you suspect you’re developing periodontitis
Marijuana may have some health benefits for certain people suffering from certain diseases, but a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association suggested that cannabis puts its users at a higher risk for gum disease. Those who smoke cannabis regularly and over an extended period of time are far more likely to develop gum disease than those who don’t.
The study examined data concerning patients born between 1972 and 1973. They found that those who smoked weed often had suffered from some degree of periodontitis by the age of 32 years old. Periodontitis is a serious condition. If left untreated, it can eventually lead to the loss of bone and eventual tooth loss.
Research suggests that those who smoke cannabis are three times more likely to develop periodontitis than non-smokers. With those odds, it’s important that you seriously consider what damage you may incur by smoking cannabis. Periodontitis often leads to very uncomfortable and costly problems as it progresses.
Speak to your dentist immediately if you suspect you’re developing periodontitis. It’s important that you visit your dentist regularly for them to monitor your gums and teeth. They will encourage you to practice general healthy habits and to maintain your teeth by brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. If periodontitis is in more advanced stages, they may recommend further treatment.
