Medical Cannabis and the Dental Patient
JENNIFER CULLEN, RDH, MPH
Despite advances in legal and social acceptance, much remains unknown about the impact of cannabis consumption on general and oral health. As oral health is integral to overall health dental providers must become knowledgeable, not only about the effects of cannabis on the oral cavity but also about how patients use cannabis to manage medical conditions including chronic pain and/or anxiety. This lecture will provide an update on the medical indications and oral implications of cannabis use to better facilitate person-centered care for this growing population.
Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:
- Describe medical indications for use of cannabis-based drugs
- Be familiar with their state’s medical marijuana regulations and programs
- Describe implications of cannabis use on oral health and dental practice
- Describe current trends and risks associated with various methods of cannabis consumption
- Understand the role of cannabis-based drugs in caring for patients with chronic pain/anxiety
Jennifer Cullen, RDH, MPH is a Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of the Dental Hygiene Division in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, Division of Dental Hygiene at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Prior to being division director, she was director of the U-M DH Degree Completion Program for eight years. Ms. Cullen has a passion for facilitating access to both healthcare and education. Her professional and research interests include online education, special patients, behavioral-oral health connection, and strengths-based leadership. Ms. Cullen has presented or published on a range of topics including elder abuse, dental hygiene care in alternative settings, cannabis and oral health, opioid prescription trends, equity-focused teaching, and outcomes of online education program delivery. She is a member of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, the American Dental Education Association, and the American Association of Public Health Dentistry.