Studies have shown that cigarette smoking is a leading cause of gum disease among many adults. But now new research indicates smoking marijuana may be even worse.
That according to periodontist, Dr. Peter Cabrera, you may not know it until it's too late.
"Because the smoking will destroy circulation, in essence, it's making the problem worse and it's hiding it from you at the same time."
Over a 15 year period, researchers in New Zealand compared marijuana smoking and gum disease in about 900 young adults .
Murray Thomson, from the Sir John Walsh Research Institute says, "When we were looking at the new cases of gum disease between twenty-six and thirty-two, fully one-third of those new cases were due to cannabis smoking. That really surprised us."
People who smoked marijuana at least once a week, were three times more likely to develop gum disease than those who never smoked pot. Some of these heavy marijuana smokers never smoked cigarettes. The findings appear this week in Journal of the American Medical Association.
Thomson adds, "It's not the effect of the smoke directly on the gums, it's the effect of the toxins being absorbed from the smoke that's sucked down into the lungs"
Those toxins breakdown the gums' ability to heal leading to infection, gum, and bone loss. Eventually you'll begin to lose teeth.
Dr. Cabrera says, "You've lost half the bone support of that tooth at a young age so by the time you're in your forties and fifties you're likely to have lost a significant number of your teeth."
Researchers hope the findings will encourage marijuana users to stop smoking, pointing out that prolonged gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to even more serious health problems.
Dr. Rhonda Low's additional comments:
Most studies are finding a link between gum disease, stroke, and heart attack in older adults. Severe problems can make it more difficult to control diabetes. Pregnant women are especially susceptible to periodontal disease and in moderate to severe cases it can increase the risk for premature labor which could result in preemie babies who can face a lifetime of health problems.
Gum disease prevention
Some folks are more genetically susceptible to gum disease and poor nutrition, especially vitamin and mineral deficiencies play a role. Research has shown that the number one lifestyle factor that affects the progression of periodontal disease is smoking. In the early stages, there may not be any symptoms, getting regular dental checkups and cleaning are key, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and calcium. Brush at least twice a day and floss. Research has shown that compared to manual toothbrushes, the electric or battery operated kind can help reduce gum disease. Mouthwash that contain essential oils can also help keep gum disease at bay.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Dr. Rhonda Low
