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‘Droogies’ (Xerostomia), Cannabis Use and Tooth Decay

If you’ve ever smoked cannabis and felt like your mouth suddenly turned into the Sahara Desert, welcome to the club. Cannabis use can lead to dry mouth (officially known as xerostomia), which, while it may seem like a minor annoyance, can actually contribute to some serious dental issues if left unchecked. Let’s break down how this all works and what you can do to keep your smile in check.

Let’s Break It Down

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a common side effect of cannabis use, regardless of the consumption method. This phenomenon is primarily attributed to the cannabinoid THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.

How THC Causes Dry Mouth

  • Inhibition of Salivary Glands: THC interacts with receptors in the body, including those found in the salivary glands. When THC binds to these receptors, it can inhibit their function, leading to reduced saliva production.
  • Dehydration: Cannabis can also contribute to dehydration, which can further exacerbate dry mouth. This is because THC can affect the body’s thirst mechanism, making individuals less likely to feel thirsty even when they are dehydrated.

Consumption Methods and Dry Mouth

  • Smoking: Smoking cannabis can lead to rapid absorption of THC, potentially resulting in more pronounced and immediate dry mouth symptoms.
  • Edibles: Edibles, which are ingested and metabolized by the liver, can take longer to produce effects, but once they do, they can also cause dry mouth.
  • Oils: Cannabis oils, when consumed orally or sublingually, can also lead to dry mouth, although the severity may vary depending on the concentration of THC and individual factors.

It’s important to note that the severity of dry mouth can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms, while others may find it more bothersome.

How Does Dry Mouth Lead to Tooth Decay?

Saliva: Your Mouth’s MVP:

  • Saliva might not be something you think about often, but it’s essential for keeping your mouth healthy. One of its superpowers is neutralising acids produced by bacteria. It also helps maintain the perfect pH balance (between 6.5 and 7.5) to keep tooth decay at bay.
  • When cannabis hits your system, your saliva production can slow down. Less saliva means your mouth becomes more acidic, which is prime real estate for cavity-causing bacteria to move in and start wrecking your teeth.

Sugar Cravings and Acid Attacks

  • Let’s be honest—after cannabis use, that snack stash looks pretty irresistible. Unfortunately, those sugary treats give bacteria in your mouth a feast of their own. As bacteria digest the sugars, they release acids that wear down your tooth enamel.
  • Normally, saliva would help wash away these sugars and acids, but with dry mouth, it’s like leaving the front door open for bacteria to party on your teeth. The result? A higher risk of cavities.

Saliva is The Ultimate Repair Kit

Saliva doesn’t just clean up; it also contains minerals like calcium and phosphate that help repair tiny damage to your enamel. Without enough saliva, your teeth lose that vital protection, making them more vulnerable to decay.

Diet: How Whole Foods Can Help Protect Your Teeth

One of the best ways to protect your teeth—especially when dealing with dry mouth—is to take a closer look at your diet. Highly processed foods, loaded with sugars and refined carbs, can throw your oral health off balance, making it easier for harmful bacteria to thrive. On the flip side, eating more whole, seasonal fruits and vegetables can have a huge positive impact.

Why Whole Foods Matter:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients and minerals like calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, which are essential for maintaining strong teeth. These minerals actually help remineralise your saliva, boosting its ability to protect your enamel from decay.
  • Foods like leafy greens, apples, and carrots also naturally clean your teeth as you chew, stimulating saliva production, which in turn helps wash away food particles and bacteria.

Variety is Key:

  • A diet filled with a variety of fresh, seasonal produce provides a broader range of vitamins and minerals, supporting not just your teeth but your overall health. For example, leafy greens are packed with calcium, while crunchy fruits and vegetables can naturally stimulate your saliva glands, helping to balance the pH in your mouth and neutralise harmful acids.

In contrast, ultra-processed foods often contain hidden sugars and additives that dry out your mouth, promote acidity, and leave your teeth vulnerable to decay.

Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Healthy While Using Cannabis

Stay Hydrated:

  • Water is your best friend here. Drink plenty of it to keep your mouth moist and saliva flowing. It’ll help combat that dry, sticky feeling and reduce the acidity in your mouth.

Stay on Top of Oral Hygiene:

  • Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (fluoride if you eat a highly processed diet, of course), and don’t skip the floss! You want to remove any food particles and plaque that might fuel decay.
  • You can also use a mouthwash specifically designed for dry mouth, which can help moisturize your mouth and offer added protection.

Snack Smart:

  • While it’s tempting to reach for sweets, try opting for healthier snacks like crunchy veggies and fruits. If you need something sweet, consider sugar-free gum—it helps stimulate saliva and keeps bacteria in check. Bonus points if the gum contains xylitol, which actually fights decay-causing bacteria.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly:

  • Make sure you’re seeing your dentist regularly for check-ups. Let them know about your cannabis use so they can provide advice tailored to your needs and help keep an eye on your oral health.

Try Saliva Substitutes:

  • There are over-the-counter saliva substitutes available in sprays, rinses, or lozenges that can help alleviate dry mouth. If you’re struggling, consult your healthcare provider about medications that can stimulate saliva production.

By understanding the connection between cannabis use, dry mouth, and tooth decay, you can take a few simple steps to protect your oral health and keep your smile bright—even if the ‘droogies’ strike.

References

  1. American Dental Association: Effects of Marijuana on Oral Health
  2. National Institute on Drug Abuse: Marijuana Research Report
  3. Journal of the American Dental Association: Dental Health and Marijuana Use
  4. Mayo Clinic: Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)