Going To The Dentist, High
A new survey says people are going to the dentist, high. According to a new survey from the American Dental Association, as more and more states are legalizing marijuana, more…
NITEROI, BRAZIL – JULY 01: Dentist Fatima Camara, treats a client in her dental office amidst the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on July 1, 2020 in Niteroi, Brazil. The city of Niteroi authorized the reopening of shopping malls and small and medium-sized street business. The establishments will be able to reopen following distance rules such as reduced opening hours, restricting the flow of people and maintaining hygiene standards. (Photo by Luis Alvarenga/Getty Images)
Photo by Luis Alvarenga/Getty Images)A new survey says people are going to the dentist, high.
According to a new survey from the American Dental Association, as more and more states are legalizing marijuana, more than 50% of dentists report seeing patients high on weed or other drugs.
The survey says many of the patients are using it as a way to relax before an appointment. Not realizing that being high might limit the care a dentist can give and result in procedures having to be postponed and rescheduled.
According to ADA spokeswoman Dr. Tricia Quartley, " when somebody is under the influence, oftentimes we need to give more anesthesia or we may have difficulty with anesthesia. If you can't get somebody fully numb, it's not exactly the same experience and lessening the anxiety. You have to stop the visit and send the patient home. The survey found that 56% of dentists have done just that, sent the patient home.
The survey included 550 dentists and just over 1000 patients. Among the patients, 39% said they used marijuana, 25% of the patients said they vaped, and 51% of them, vaped marijuana.
The ADA now recommends dentists ask their patients if they use marijuana. And also recommends patients discuss their marijuana use with their dentist. The advice will be to not use marijuana prior to an appointment. By the way, dentists say patients that use marijuana have an increased risk for cavities. Because most users in general, have poorer oral health and hygiene. People that use are also prone to higher heart rates, anxiety, and hyperactivity, which might lead to more stress in the chair.
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