Learning Objectives: 

• Discuss the history and various types of cannabis, as well as its current legal status and proposed uses in dentistry.
• Describe the pharmacology of cannabis, including its mechanism of action, routes of administration and available formulations.
• Identify the effects of cannabis on major organ systems.
• Explain the clinical considerations of cannabis use, including adverse reactions, drug interactions and contraindications.

According to the DEA, cannabis is considered to have no accepted medical use and, thus, it is illegal to possess. Yet, almost every state has enacted legislation aimed at legalizing or decriminalizing cannabis for medical or recreational use. Despite this rise in social and legal acceptance, public health concerns regarding the use of cannabis remain, especially among dental hygienists, since the major routes of administration of cannabis involve the oral cavity. This program will introduce dental hygienists to the pharmacology of cannabis, including its various dosage forms, routes of administration, and adverse effects. Special emphasis will be placed on the effects of cannabis use on oral health and dental hygiene treatment, as well as the potential use of cannabis chairside for the management of patient anxiety and odontogenic pain.