Smoking is harmful, but cannabis may help: understand the difference in oral health

In episode #37 of the second season of Deusa Cast, an original Sechat podcast, two oral health specialists shed light on a topic that still raises doubts among many cannabis users: does smoking harm the periodontium? The answer is straightforward and well-founded: yes. 

The reasons are explained by dentists and researchers Cynthia de Carlo and Luciene Figueiredo, guests of the episode.

According to the specialists, the act of smoking, whether tobacco or cannabis, exposes the oral cavity to combustion, triggering an inflammatory process that directly affects the periodontium, the set of tissues that support the teeth. “Smoke releases toxic substances that, over time, will affect gums and bones,” points out Cynthia.

 She clarifies that this is not related to the cannabinoids themselves, but rather to the combustion process and frequent exposure to hot, dry smoke.

Luciene reinforces, “When we say that smoking cannabis harms the periodontium, we are referring to the harmful effects of smoke. What is detrimental is the method of use, not necessarily the substance itself.” 

This distinction is important because, contrary to what many believe, cannabinoids can indeed be allies in the dental office, as long as they are administered correctly.

During the episode, the professionals also explained that compounds like CBD and THC, when used in controlled formulations such as oils, gels, or capsules, have positive effects on pain control, healing acceleration, and reduction of inflammatory processes. 

“Cannabis has enormous therapeutic potential in dentistry, but this requires professional guidance, studies, and responsible use,” emphasizes Cynthia.

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With accessible language, a good dose of empathy, and quality information, the episode helps to debunk myths and invites the audience to reflect on more conscious and therapeutic ways to use cannabis. 

For those looking to better understand this relationship between oral health and the medicinal uses of the plant, it is worth checking out the full episode. 

Watch the clip from episode #37 of Deusa Cast, about how the act of smoking harms periodontology and understand how cannabis can affect (positively or negatively) your oral health.