Cannabis Smoking and Periodontal Disease Among Young Adults

Abstract

Periodontal disease (periodontitis) is one of the most common chronic diseases in adults; it is bacterially mediated inflammation that extends deep into the tissues, causing loss of supporting connective tissue and alveolar bone.¹ Left unchecked in susceptible individuals, it can result in the loosening and eventual loss of teeth. It is second only to dental caries as a cause of tooth loss among adults in developed countries.² Tobacco smoking is recognized as the primary behavioral risk factor for the condition.^3,4 Its effect on the periodontium occurs systemically through the adverse effects of nicotine and other toxic constituents on immune function and the inflammatory response, as well as through reducing peripheral blood flow.⁵