Researchers have found a link from frequent recreational cannabis use to periodontal disease. This includes marijuana, hashish and hash oil. In a study participants who use at least once a month for a year showed signs of increased mild, moderate, or severe periodontal disease. This study is a featured in the Journal of Periodontology published by the American Academy of Periodontology.
At a time in the United States when marijuana is becoming legalized in some states, users should be informed of the effect of using cannabis on the health of their gums. Pocket depth measurements between a tooth and surrounding gum tissue range from one to three millimeters in healthy gums. In gums with mild periodontal disease they measure from three to five millimeters and in more severe periodontal disease they measure more than seven millimeters deep.
There are a number of risk factors that can contribute to periodontal disease and the use of cannabis may be one of them. Patients should always notify their periodontists of all risk factors in order to be diagnosed properly and given the appropriate treatment. If you feel you are at risk please call and schedule a consultation with Dr. Wendt.