J Am Dent Assoc. 2016 Nov 18. pii: S0002-8177(16)30856-X. doi: 10.1016/j.adaj.2016.10.009. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW:
There
is a lack of clinical research on the potential effect of cannabis use
on the periodontium as well as its effect on treatment outcomes. The aim
of this case report is to illustrate the clinical presentation of
periodontal disease in a young woman who was a chronic cannabis user, as
well as successful treatment involving motivating the patient to quit
cannabis use and undergo nonsurgical and surgical therapy.
CASE DESCRIPTION:
A
23-year-old woman sought care at the dental clinic for periodontal
treatment. During a review of her medical history, the patient reported
using cannabis frequently during a 3-year period, which coincided with
the occurrence of gingival inflammation. She used cannabis in the form
of cigarettes that were placed at the mandibular anterior region of her
mouth for prolonged periods. Localized prominent papillary and marginal
gingival enlargement of the anterior mandible were present. The
mandibular anterior teeth showed localized severe chronic periodontitis.
The clinicians informed the patient about the potentially detrimental
consequences of continued cannabis use; she was encouraged to quit,
which she did. The clinicians performed nonsurgical therapy (scaling and
root planing) and osseous surgery. The treatment outcome was evaluated
over 6 months; improved radiographic and clinical results were observed
throughout the follow-up period.
CONCLUSIONS AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS:
Substantial
availability and usage of cannabis, specifically among young adults,
requires dentists to be vigilant about clinical indications of cannabis
use and to provide appropriate treatments. Behavioral modification,
nonsurgical therapy, and surgical therapy offer the potential for
successful management of cannabis-related periodontitis.
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