Regardless of what side of the marijuana debate you come down on, there are some undisputed facts about the correlation between the use of pot and the development of gum issues such as gum disease.

Here is more information to help you make up your mind about whether you want to risk it.

Smoking pot is related to the development of gum disease

A lengthy study conducted in New Zealand found that there is a definite link between using pot (or tobacco, for that matter) and your likelihood of developing gum disease. Over the span of a number of years, regular use of pot has a direct correlation with a given patient's risk of developing gum disease.

This takes into account other risk factors, such as the regularity of oral hygiene, the thoroughness of various cleaning procedures, and other things which impact the chances of developing gum disease. When it's all said and done, even if you regularly practice solid dental hygiene, you increase your risk of developing gum disease if you are a pot smoker.

Gum disease is not a joke

While this news might not be enough to change your mind about using pot, you do need to be aware of the risks you run by continuing to do so. Gum disease can lead to a number of other health complications, including the eventual loss of your teeth.

If you use pot or tobacco, please consider whether it's worth doing so in light of the risk, both to your overall health and to your teeth. If you need more information, please talk with your dentist during your next regularly scheduled cleaning.

We are here to help you, and we are happy to sit down with you and answer your questions. We look forward to hearing from you! So contact our office today!