Is Periodontal Disease More Prevalent Among Cannabis Users?

This is a summary of an article that systematically reviewed the literature to investigate the prevalence of periodontal disease among cannabis users. 

Download the PDF of the summary

Chisini LA, Cademartori MG, Francia A, et al. Is the use of Cannabis associated with periodontitis? A systematic review and meta-analysis [published online ahead of print January 24, 2019]. J Periodontal Res.

Probable Higher Prevalence of Periodontal Disease in Cannabis Users

The relationship between cannabis smoking and periodontal disease is still unclearly. With cannabis becoming more popular, it is important for clinicians to keep up to date on the evidence to properly advise their patients.

Methods

The authors conducted a systematic review to assess the association between cannabis use and periodontitis. They included 5 studies in which researchers enrolled 13,491 participants. Meta-analyses of 4 of the studies showed that the prevalence of periodontal disease in participants who reported cannabis use was 1.12 times higher than that of participants who did not use cannabis. The study not included in the meta-analysis also showed a positive association between cannabis use and periodontal diseases.

Clinical Implications

Cannabis users are likely to have a higher prevalence of periodontal disease than nonusers; however, the type of studies included do not allow making claims that cannabis use is a risk factor for periodontal disease.

Strengths and Limitations

• As appropriate methods were used to conduct the review, there are no important concerns about the review process.
• Studies consistent in suggesting that cannabis users have a higher prevalence of periodontal diseases. However, the applicability of these results to other populations is uncertain. The only information provided was the countries in which the studies were conducted without indication whether those populations had a higher or lower prevalence of periodontal disease.
• It is also difficult to gauge the size of the prevalence of periodontal and whether or not it has a meaningful impact on patients.

We want to hear from you!

Leave a comment about this post in the box below, send your feedback by email or call us at 1-855-716-2747.

Until next time!

The CDA Oasis Team