With the legalization of marijuana (Cannabis) behind us, it’s important to know how the drug can affect your dental appointment.
The BC Dental Association has released this patient bulletin to educate the population on how marijuana can negatively affect your dental appointment.
- Always be honest with your health care provider on any drugs or supplements you are taking, including marijuana.
- Marijuana can interfere with other medications we use in the dental office.
- Marijuana use can result in poor healing and effect your ability to consent to treatment. Cannabis can increase risk of bleeding and complications after procedures such as cleanings, extractions, root canals, fillings, implants. Be open with your dentist and avoid cannabis before all medical appointments.
- Cannabis come in many different strains, each with a slightly different effect on the human body. Some can be higher in levels of THS, some cause increased anxiety while others have more sedative effects. The different modes of consumption (smoking, vaping, eating) results in different effects. Smoking and vaping have a more immediate effect, while edibles can be less predictable - lasting longer, and having a stronger effect. This vast unpredictability is a good reason to avoid using it before a dental appointment
- Reschedule your appointment if you have consumed cannabis, and always be honest with your dentist.
