A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association has found that frequent recreational cannabis (FRC) use is associated with a higher likelihood of dental problems. The research analyzed data from 5,656 U.S. adults aged 18 to 59, collected between 2015 and 2018 through the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
According to the study, individuals reporting FRC use had a 17% higher probability of having untreated coronal caries, a 55% higher chance of untreated root surface caries, and a 41% greater likelihood of experiencing severe tooth loss, compared to non-users.
The authors advise dental professionals to be aware of these potential associations. They also call for further longitudinal studies to assess the impact of varying frequencies, quantities, and forms of cannabis use on oral health.
As of January 2025, medical cannabis is legal in 40 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, while recreational use is permitted in 24 states, three U.S. territories, and D.C. Federally, recreational cannabis remains illegal.
During his campaign in September to race as president, Donald Trump voiced support for reclassifying cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, a move that would acknowledge its medical benefits and reduce tax restrictions on the industry. He also advocated for expanding banking access for cannabis businesses and endorsed a Florida ballot measure to legalize recreational use, which ultimately failed.
