Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions. You can find out if you’re eligible by completing the quick eligibility checker on our website.
But, what are the oral effects of cannabis?
Medical cannabis can potentially result in several oral side effects. Most of these aren’t serious, and simply checking in with your dentist every 6 months will help you keep on top of your oral health. This is pretty standard procedure, whether you consume medical cannabis or not. And of course looking after your teeth at home is important. Brushing twice a day, flossing - you know the drill.
One of the most common side effects of medical cannabis is dry mouth. Essentially your body may produce less saliva when medical cannabis interacts with your salivary gland receptors. Although this isn’t a serious health concern, saliva does play a critical role in neutralising acids and clearing food debris. This means a reduction in saliva can lead to increased plaque accumulation. So, if you regularly experience dry mouth when consuming medical cannabis, speak to your clinician. They may advise a different form, or alter your dose. And again, brush your teeth and book those 6 month check ups with your dentist. Just to keep on top of things.
Cannabis and Oral Disease Risk: What Does the Research Say?
When cannabis is smoked, there is some evidence that may link it to periodontitis (which is a gum infection that could potentially lead to tooth loss if left untreated), oral lesions, and oral cancers. But if you’re prescribed medical cannabis, you don’t need to worry about this. Why? Because it’s illegal to smoke your prescription. Instead, you can consume flower using a dry herb vaporiser, or you may even be prescribed a different form. We explore this more below.
This statistical analysis shows no significant independent association between cannabis and dental caries, or cavities (small holes in the teeth caused by tooth decay). But again, using cannabis with tobacco - which is illegal - may increase this risk.
Essentially what we’re saying is, if you legally access medical cannabis through a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf, and you follow the instructions and guidance of our expert clinicians, you don’t really have to worry about medical cannabis and gum disease. Just communicate any oral health issues with both your dentist and clinician, so they can stay on top of it and reduce or stop your treatment if needed.
THC vs CBD in Dental: Clinical Uses vs Oral Risks
The cannabis plant produces over 100 cannabinoids, or compounds. Tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of these natural compounds, and they’re what you’ll see most often when researching medical cannabis.
Although THC and CBD have many similar potential medical benefits, they can have different effects. The main difference is that THC can produce a ‘high’, while CBD doesn’t. And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
This study explores how CBD has the potential to reduce inflammation, swelling and pain sensitivity, suggesting there may be a potential benefit of CBD for toothache.
But what about THC and oral hygiene? As long as you’re consuming your medical cannabis prescription as prescribed, and you’re brushing your teeth and seeing your dentist, you shouldn’t need to worry about your dental health.
Plus, both CBD and THC can play a lead role on certain health conditions, and can sometimes be greater together, due to a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
What Should Patients Know Before Using Medical Cannabis?
Before using medical cannabis, patients should understand the different forms available:
- Inhaling: This method of consumption provides rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes, making it suitable for immediate relief of symptoms such as pain. You’ll need to purchase a dry herb vaporiser through a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf. As we mentioned above, smoking your prescription is bad for oral health, general health, and illegal in the UK.
- Cannabis Edibles & Capsules: Consuming cannabis-infused ‘edibles’, like pastilles, or soft gel capsules, results in slower onset of effects, which can take between 1 to 2 hours. Edibles are a convenient option for mild inflammation because some people find that they provide longer and more pronounced relief. You may want to keep in mind is avoiding edibles high in sugar.
- CBD & THC Oils/Tinctures: Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue provides a faster onset than edibles, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, and, like edible options, relief tends to last.
Although medical cannabis is available in different forms, the way you consume is down to personal preference and your clinicians recommendation. They’ll advise you based on your symptoms and condition, but they’ll also work with you to find what you’re comfortable with. Remember, you may not choose the right form at first, so speak to your clinician if you have any questions, preferences, or dental concerns. And we always recommend you start low and go slow to avoid any unwanted effects.
You may want to tell your dentist about medical cannabis use, as it may interact with other medications or affect treatment decisions. You should also take extra care with oral hygiene, as that minor side effect we spoke about earlier, dry mouth, may increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Regular dental check-ups and good daily care are essential.
Is Medical Cannabis Recognised in UK Dental Practice?
There are currently no formal guidelines or frameworks regarding the use of medical cannabis and oral health in UK dental practice. This means medical cannabis products are not routinely considered part of dental treatment plans.
However, medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since 1st November 2018 when prescribed by a specialist doctor, like the ones found at licensed medical cannabis clinics like Alternaleaf. We prescribe for 50+ conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, ADHD and autism. It’s unlikely you’ll get a prescription of medical cannabis for tooth pain relief, but if you regularly struggle with pain or inflammation that affects your mouth, and have a chronic pain diagnosis, or you suffer from anxiety as a symptom of your dental health, and therefore are seeking medical cannabis for dental anxiety, you may get a prescription.
To be eligible, you’ll need a diagnosis for a qualifying condition, and to have been offered at least two conventional treatments for this condition. This can include medication, talking therapy, physiotherapy, surgery and anything else prescribed by your GP. Keep in mind, if you’re pregnant or have a history of psychosis or schizophrenia, you won’t qualify.
Just because it’s legal in the UK, doesn’t mean it’s legal everywhere. It’s always a good idea to check if you’re travelling somewhere, what their rules and laws are around medical cannabis.
At Alternaleaf, we offer expert guidance throughout your medical cannabis journey to ensure safe and effective use. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second eligibility checker.
Summary
So, that’s our short exploration of medical cannabis and dental health. While it’s generally safe, oral side effects like dry mouth may increase the risk of plaque. The simple solution? Consume as prescribed, book regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene. Remember, smoking medical cannabis is illegal.
The best thing to do is speak to your clinician, or seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf if you’re considering medical cannabis treatment. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second eligibility checker.