Oral effects of non-therapeutic cannabis use: a systematic review

Abstract

Cannabis is the most commonly abused drug in the world. This drug, derived from the cannabis sativa plant, has delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC) as its main psychoactive component. Cannabis can have effects not only systemically but also in the mouth as a side effect of abuse. The aim of this study was to analyse, the oral adverse effects of non-medical cannabis use by means of a systematic review. To this end, a systematic bibliographic search was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases using inclusion and exclusion criteria.

In the thirteen articles selected, xerostomia and periodontal problems in users were found to be directly related to cannabis use. On the other hand, cannabis use may be a risk factor for oral soft tissue

lesions, biofilm changes on the tongue, caries lesions and oral cancer. Finally, no association was found between cannabis use and taste and smell disorders, human oral papillomavirus infection, bruxism and hyposalia.

Therefore, cannabis use may have a direct effect on oral health and may be a risk factor for the development of other oral pathologies. An analysis of its effects on the oral cavity should highlight the role of the dentist in educating users and preventing use.