GA dentists warn parents about this little-known side effect of marijuana
Despite Georgia’s tight restrictions on THC products, 16.3% of the state’s high school-aged youth reported using marijuana at least once in the past 30 days, according to the National Council for Mental Wellbeing .
And dentists now are warning parents about the product’s dangers to their teenagers’ dental health.
Dr. Elizabeth Walton, co-founder and clinical director of Risas Kids Dental, said in an email to the Ledger-Enquirer the dental issues are serious.
“Weed causes dry mouth, which removes your body’s natural protection against cavities” she said. “Now add the munchies — sugary snacks, sodas, and chips — and you’ve got a perfect storm for tooth decay.”
For teens and young adults, the risk isn’t just about the munchies; it’s a genuine oral health hazard.
What are the dental side effects to marijuana and THC use?
Local health programs like the Georgia Dental Association are seeing a surge in rates of dental caries, gum problems and oral lesions.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found these common problems among young marijuana users:
Dry mouth (Xerostomia): Suppressed saliva production removes the body’s natural defense against bacteria and acids and lowers the defense against cavities and gum disease.
The munchies: Users often crave sugary snacks. Paired with dry mouth, this rapidly feeds cavity-causing bacteria.
Enamel erosion: With less saliva and more acidic food, the tooth enamel wears away faster.
Neglected hygiene: Cannabis users often skip brushing and flossing, which compounds the problem.
What problems are dentists seeing in young adults?
The American Dental Association reports that 52% of U.S. dentists now treat patients who are under the influence of cannabis at their appointments. They also notice these patients often experience more oral complications, which can result in more dental issues.
Some of the complications include:
More cavities at younger ages
Faster progression of enamel erosion and gum disease
Aesthetic damage like tooth discoloration or decay
Chronic bad breath and gum receding.
What can parents do to help?
Every parent reminds their child to “brush your teeth,” but there are a few other ways they can help their child avoid dental problems.
If you disapprove of your child using cannabis-related products, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry suggests parents can start by encouraging honest, non-judgmental conversations about their behavior.
Parents also can connect dental health to topics their children care about like appearance, sports performance and overall self-confidence.
Beyond that, parents can follow these steps:
Schedule regular dental checkups
Stock more tooth-friendly options, other than sugary snacks
Model good oral health and faithfully attend their annual dental visits.
As cannabis and THC sales and use become more prominent, parents have to be aware of the dangers that accompany its use, including the damage it can cause to their kids’ mouths.
If you need help affording or finding local dental resources, look for the GDA’s list of charitable clinics.
If you have any thoughts or concerns, or would like more information about anything, email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.
This story was originally published July 16, 2025 at 2:47 PM with the headline "GA dentists warn parents about this little-known side effect of marijuana."
