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While it has long been acknowledged that tobacco is highly detrimental to good oral hygiene, further research continues to be undertaken exploring the effects of cannabis on healthy teeth and gums. There is an increasing body of evidence that links the use of cannabis with the early onset of tooth decay and gum disease. A recent study followed a group of people who smoked cannabis from the age of 18 until 32. Those that continued to smoke cannabis until the age 32 were found to be 1.6 times more likely to have gum disease.
As with tobacco, there is a large quantity of tar that is inhaled when cannabis is smoked, in the process a lot of tar sticks to your teeth, gums and mouth. Over time this tar, along with plaque and food particles, can build up and begin to cause tooth decay. While it is essential to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, the tar can become very stubbornly stuck over time and hard to remove through your regular dental hygiene routine. Cannabis also has the effect of decreasing saliva production of the salivary gland. Adequate saliva is very important for the breakdown of food particles and self-cleaning processes in your mouth. Cannabis, and products commonly smoked in conjunction, are carcinogenic and so greatly increase your risk of cancer, including oral cancer.
There are a wide variety of risks associated with cannabis and tooth decay, for further information you should speak to your Central London dentist about the adverse effects and what preventative measures can be taken.