Anyone who has known an addict or suffered from addiction will readily agree that drugs will destroy your body from the inside out. Heroin users will suffer from deflated veins (due to frequent injection), and crack addicts will suffer from frequent nosebleeds. However, did you know that marijuana can destroy your gum tissue? According to studies, the partially legalized drug not only destroys your brain but can also wreak havoc on your mouth, particularly your gums. Let’s take a closer look at marijuana’s properties and see why this drug (now allowed in several states) is so destructive.
The Mysteries of Marijuana
Remember, just because marijuana can be put in brownies and cakes does not make it safe. Drawn from the Cannabis plant, this drug contains over 500 chemical agents called cannabinoids, the most toxic among them a psychoactive agent called THC (delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol). After you eat or smoke the drug, you will feel a rush of energy and a sense of happiness and relaxation, called a “high.” This feeling is triggered after THC stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain.
Evidence strongly suggests that marijuana can impact your IQ and your brain, overall. Medical researchers have also determined that long-term use of the drug can lead to neglect in the workplace and at home, eventually resulting in social isolation.
“Gum’s” the Word
Did you ever think that marijuana could damage your mouth, though?
In a recent study of 2,000 Americans, researchers discovered that people who frequently smoked the drug were putting themselves at an especially high risk for gum disease (at a rate twice as high as casual smokers). While tobacco is infamous for damaging the mouth, throat, and lungs, a scientist from the Columbia University School of Dental Medicine was shocked by this recent reveal. So the next time you see a friend reach for a joint or a hollow or you are tempted to experiment, make sure you consider the health of your mouth, as well as the rest of your body.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Out counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction troubles today.
