High Today, Cavities Tomorrow; The Hidden Dental Effects of Cannabis
Cannabis use is becoming increasingly common—and increasingly normalized. For many people, it’s viewed as a natural or safer alternative to alcohol or prescription medications. But when it comes to oral health, the story is more complicated.
Recent reporting by CNN and growing scientific evidence highlight an important reality: regular cannabis use can significantly affect the health of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues, sometimes in ways patients don’t expect.
As a dentist and health educator, my goal isn’t to judge choices—but to make sure people understand the physiological consequences of those choices so they can protect their long-term health.
How Cannabis Affects the Mouth
1. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) and Tooth Decay
One of the most common effects of cannabis is xerostomia, or dry mouth. Saliva plays a critical protective role—it neutralizes acids, washes away bacteria, and supplies minerals that strengthen enamel.
When you have less saliva:
• Cavities develop more easily
• Gum inflammation increases
• Breath odor worsens
• Tooth sensitivity becomes more common
Chronic dry mouth creates an ideal environment for harmful bacteria to thrive.
2. Increased Risk of Cavities and Tooth Loss
Cannabis use is often associated with:
• Frequent snacking, especially sugary foods
• Reduced motivation for oral hygiene
• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
Over time, this combination can accelerate enamel breakdown, periodontal disease, and ultimately tooth loss—even in otherwise healthy individuals.
3. Oral Lesions and Cancer Risk
A concerning body of research links cannabis use—especially heavy or chronic use—with oral cancers, including cancers of the lips and tongue.
A study published in Preventive Medicine Reports found that individuals with cannabis use disorder were more than three times as likely to develop lip or tongue cancers within five years compared with non-users.
Why?
• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) can weaken local immune responses in the mouth and nasal passages
• Cannabis smoke contains known carcinogens such as:
o Ammonia
o Hydrogen cyanide
o Aromatic amines
These compounds can irritate and damage oral tissues, increasing cancer risk—particularly when combined with smoking or vaping.
Cannabis and Dental Procedures: An Important Safety Issue
Cannabis doesn’t just affect your teeth—it can also affect how your body responds to dental treatment.
Anesthesia Interactions
Regular cannabis use may:
• Reduce the effectiveness of local anesthesia
• Increase the amount of anesthesia required
• Elevate heart rate and blood pressure during procedures
• Raise the risk of adverse drug interactions
Patients who use cannabis before dental or surgical procedures may also face higher rates of post-operative complications, including delayed healing and cardiovascular stress.
Why Your Dentist Needs to Know
Dental professionals are increasingly encouraged to ask patients about cannabis use, not out of curiosity—but for safety.
Knowing a patient’s cannabis habits helps dentists:
• Adjust anesthesia appropriately
• Reduce procedural risks
• Identify early signs of oral disease
• Create more effective, personalized treatment plans
When you’re honest about cannabis use, your dentist has the information needed to keep your smile healthy.
Protecting Your Oral Health If You Use Cannabis
If you use cannabis regularly, a few proactive steps can make a meaningful difference:
• Stay well hydrated to counteract dry mouth
• Use sugar-free gum or saliva-stimulating products
• Brush twice daily and floss consistently
• Schedule regular dental exams and oral cancer screenings
• Avoid using cannabis immediately before dental procedures
Awareness is prevention.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis may offer perceived benefits for some individuals—but “natural” does not mean risk-free, especially when it comes to oral health.
Your mouth is a window into your overall health. Paying attention to early warning signs today can help prevent serious consequences tomorrow.
If you have questions about how cannabis may be affecting your oral or systemic health, talk with your dentist or healthcare provider. An informed conversation is always the healthiest place to start.
References
1. CNN Health. Experts reveal the oral health risks of cannabis.
2. Meier, M. H., et al. (2019). Associations between cannabis use disorder and oral cancers. Preventive Medicine Reports, 14, 100832.
3. American Dental Association. Cannabis: Oral Health Effects and Considerations.
4. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Marijuana DrugFacts.