Over the years, we’ve learned a lot about the potential impacts of cannabis on the body and mind. Studies have shown that cannabis can help with chronic pain management, anxiety disorders, and sleep issues. It may also be a beneficial part of your overall wellness routine.
Smoking is one of the most popular methods of consuming weed. After all, it’s simple and it provides quick results. However, there is some concern over whether smoking cannabis, like smoking cigarettes, can harm your oral health and cause cavities.
So, Can Smoking Weed Cause Cavities?
Cavities are permanently damaged areas on your teeth that eventually become tiny holes. Without treatment, these holes can become larger and increase your risk of even bigger dental health issues.
Many factors can lead to the development of cavities, including sugary, acidic foods, poor oral hygiene habits, genetics, and lifestyle habits like smoking cigarettes.
Unfortunately, smoking weed regularly, although generally healthier than smoking cigarettes, does increase your risk of tooth decay and cavity development. There are a few reasons for this:
- Cannabis use can cause dry mouth. Saliva helps wash food particles and bacteria off of your teeth. Smoking weed can interfere with saliva production, leading to dry mouth, more commonly known in the cannabis world as “cottonmouth.” Less saliva makes it easier for harmful substances to stick to your teeth, increasing your risk of enamel damage.
- You may have higher levels of bacteria in your mouth. Despite the research showcasing weed’s benefits on the immune system, some research suggests smoking cannabis may suppress immune system functions. That could lead to more bacteria in your mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and cavities.
- Smoking weed may increase your appetite. Weed use can make some users hungry, a phenomenon known as “the munchies.” Many people who experience the munchies often reach for junk foods like chips or pizza. These foods can increase the risk of cavity development, especially if you don’t brush or floss regularly.
Other Potential Impacts of Cannabis Use on Dental Health
As it turns out, cannabis use can harm your oral health in a few other ways:
- Gum disease: The buildup of harmful substances on your teeth can irritate your gums, increasing the risk of gingivitis and more advanced stages of gum disease.
- Bad breath: Between dry mouth and bacteria buildup, smoking weed may lead to bad-smelling breath and unpleasant tastes in your mouth.
- Tooth discoloration: Similar to smoking cigarettes, smoking weed regularly could stain your teeth.
Cannabis Dental Care: Quick Tips for a Healthy Mouth
The following tips can help you protect your oral health when using cannabis:
- Maintain good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can combat dry mouth and keep your teeth cleaner.
- Watch what you eat. Limit high-sugar, highly processed junk foods. Stock up on healthy snacks to help out when the munchies strike.
- Get regular dental exams. Visit your dentist for cleanings and exams every six months. Be honest with your dentist about your cannabis use. They can help you understand the effects of smoking weed on your oral health and provide additional tips and tricks for a healthy mouth.
Maintain a Healthy Mouth While Using Cannabis
With good oral hygiene, healthy habits, and regular dental visits, you can absolutely smoke weed and keep your risk of developing cavities to a minimum. And for the highest-quality flower available, Far & Dotter has you covered. Check out our online menu today!
