Dry mouth, often referred to as “cotton mouth,” is a common side effect experienced by cannabis users. Although it can be a minor inconvenience, understanding its causes and managing its effects is often something anyone using cannabis wants to do, whether for medicinal or recreational purposes.
Why Does Cannabis Cause Dry Mouth?
The sensation of dry mouth happens when THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, and the body’s endocannabinoid system interact. This system, which influences many bodily functions, includes cannabinoid receptors found throughout the body, including in the salivary glands. Research indicates that THC binds to these receptors in the submandibular glands—major saliva-producing glands under the tongue—impairing their ability to receive the nervous system signals that would stimulate saliva production at the rate we’re used to.
The Impact of THC on Saliva Production
In other words, when THC activates these cannabinoid receptors, it alters the normal function of the glands, significantly reducing saliva flow. This decrease not only leads to the uncomfortable dryness known as cotton mouth but can also affect your oral health. Saliva is crucial for managing oral bacteria and maintaining tooth enamel, and its reduction can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease if you don’t take measures to help clean them, like brushing your teeth.
Effective Remedies for Cannabis-Induced Cotton Mouth
While experiencing dry mouth from cannabis can be uncomfortable, there are several effective ways to help balance out the slowness that causes the dry sensation:
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water before, during, and after cannabis use is crucial. Hydration helps alleviate dry mouth and maintains general health.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum or Suck on Hard Candy: Both actions stimulate saliva production. Opting for items with citric acid, like lemon-flavored candies, can be particularly effective due to their ability to stimulate the salivary glands more intensely.
Use Artificial Saliva Products: Over-the-counter saliva substitutes can provide temporary relief by moistening the mouth.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing and using mouthwash can help reduce the discomfort of dry mouth. Fluoride mouthwashes are particularly recommended as they help remineralize tooth enamel, protecting against decay.
Limit Mouth Breathing: Breathing through the nose instead of the mouth can help keep oral tissues moist and reduce the severity of cotton mouth.
Humidify Your Environment: Using a humidifier, especially in dry climates or heated indoor environments, can increase air moisture levels and help keep the mouth moist.
Long-Term Strategies to Manage Cotton Mouth
These facts mean that regular cannabis users need to manage their dry mouth symptoms to be able to keep up with their oral health. Frequent dental check-ups are advisable to monitor the effects of reduced saliva production on teeth and gums. Additionally, discussing cannabis use with a healthcare provider can provide insights into effective management strategies tailored to individual needs.
Understanding the Science Behind It
Continued research into how cannabinoids affect the endocannabinoid system is crucial for developing more targeted remedies for side effects like cotton mouth. This understanding can help improve the experience of cannabis users and ensure the medicinal benefits of cannabis can be enjoyed without undue discomfort.
By trying other methods, whether chewing on some gum or breathing out through their nose, cannabis users can more effectively manage their cotton mouth symptoms and safeguard their oral health. Thankfully, this can mean enhancing an overall cannabis experience.
References:
- Inhibition of salivary secretion by activation of cannabinoid receptors – PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
