S16: Cannabis Use: Weed My Lips!

Marijuana use for medical and recreational purposes has been legalized in more than 30 states. Patients are more open to talking about cannabis use and might report their use to dental professionals. During this course, participants will discuss types of cannabis, methods of use, and the prevalence of cannabis use in the USA. Synthetic cannabinoid-based medications and indications for their use, as well as systemic and oral effects of cannabis use, will be outlined. The participants will analyze the effectiveness of cannabis as an alternative for pain management and the potential for inducing addiction.   The difference between cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids will be evaluated. The course will discuss the implications of acute and chronic cannabis use on routine dental care and familiarize participants with resources for addressing drug use and addiction.

Educational Objectives:

• Discuss the legal status of marijuana use and its prevalence in the USA
• List the types of cannabis and methods of use
• Recognize the effects of cannabis use on systemic and oral health
• Discuss synthetic cannabinoid-based drugs and their indications 
• Appraise the available research on the efficacy of cannabinoid-based drugs and their adverse effects
• Evaluate the harmful effects of synthetic cannabinoids
• Assess the implications of acute and chronic cannabis use on providing routine dental and dental hygiene care
• List the resources for referral to address drug use and addiction