There is growing support for legalizing marijuana for general and medical purposes. Some states have already legalized marijuana possession for those aged 21 and older. Regardless of any legislation or ongoing debate over legalizing marijuana, marijuana has been used for years by people. It is a topic that is often discussed in recent years. There are many things to consider if you are using marijuana recreationally or for medical purposes.
Marijuana use is linked to poor oral health. Dental caries, or cavities, have been shown to be a result of marijuana use. People who smoke marijuana are more likely to develop cavities than those who do not. Oral health problems related to marijuana smoking can begin as early as adolescence. Regular use of marijuana can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease or oral lesions.
Causes
These types of problems can be caused by a variety of factors in marijuana users. Dental problems can be caused by ‘cottonmouth’, a condition where your mouth becomes very dry from the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol on your nervous system. Saliva is necessary to remove food particles and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Cottonmouth can lead to tooth decay, tooth loss, and bad breath. It can also cause sores on your gums, tongue, roof, and throat.
Want To Satisfy Your Cravings?
Your appetite is another reason marijuana can put you at risk of developing dental problems. You may have experienced the hunger pangs of marijuana. It is possible that you have a craving for certain foods. You may have experienced an increase in cravings for ding dongs and nachos.
However, cravings for marijuana are more intense than hunger-related cravings because the brain’s satiation center is also affected by marijuana. You will feel hungry even after you have eaten. This can lead to a greater intake of high-carbohydrate foods. High levels of sugar in carbohydrate foods can lead to dental problems. You can also get dental problems from eating pizza, nachos, and other junk with tomato sauce or tomatoes. These are some of the worst foods that can harm your dental health:
Candy
Soft drinks
Dried fruits
Desserts
Jams and jelly
Cereal
Lemons
Pickles
Tomatoes
Alcohol
Coffee
White bread
Potato chips
Pasta
Gum Disease
Your gums are another way that marijuana can affect your oral health. Your gomas de mariguana can be damaged by the THC and other irritants found in marijuana smoke. This can lead to infections, swelling, gingivitis, and whitish-grey lesions. These conditions can cause tooth and bone loss and gum disease symptoms such as an increase or decrease of gum tissue. Opportunistic infections can also occur in your mouth, which can spread to other parts of your body. This is partly due to the fact that marijuana can inhibit the production of antibodies, which means your immune system won’t be able to fight off infections when you are exposed. Smoking marijuana can also increase your chances of getting oral cancer.
Suggestions
There are many strategies that can be used to treat or prevent dental problems if you smoke marijuana. These are:
Good oral hygiene includes brushing every time you eat.
Healthy eating
Use a mouthwash that is specifically designed to increase the moisture level in your mouth
Avoid using mouthwash containing alcohol
Reduce your carbohydrate intake
Reduce your sugar intake
Get plenty of water
Except for carbonated water, carbonated beverages should be avoided
Regular dental cleanings and examinations
For tips on how to improve your oral health, talk to a dentist.
