Cannabis and Dental Patient 

Gain knowledge to recognize the physical signs of Cannabis use and treat dental patients safely. Know the long-term implications of Cannabis use on oral and systemic health and apply evidence-based approaches to raise awareness among patients. Review Cannabis and mental illness epidemiology, medication interactions, legal considerations, withdrawal symptoms and effective patient communication skills.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

•    Identify systemic and oral health effects in patients using Marijuana for medical and recreational purposes. 
•    Be familiar with demographics of Marijuana use, methods of consumption, and informed consent in dental practice. 
•    Understand the mechanism of THC and routes of administration, reasons for use, and approved indications of medical Cannabis. 
•    Observe and identify possible drug interactions between Cannabis and dental drugs. 
•    Discuss management of chronic dental pain with use of Cannabis and THC products 
•    Understand the risks of periodontal disease, oral cancer development, and caries in the marijuana user. 

Aman Gupta, MD teaches clinical pharmacology and therapeutics. She also instructs Physician Assistant students at the College of Health Professions. 

Her interests are keeping students informed of new drug information and facilitating interdisciplinary communication. Gupta helps students understand the rationale and correct methods of prescription writing. She provides guidance to students in relation to medical and medication histories of dental patients and ensures students demonstrate competency in the safe and effective use of medicines. 

Gupta is involved in designing case discussions and conducting case-based learning for all levels of students. She takes pride in educating dental students about the importance of optimal oral care to minimize oral problems and discomfort. She also focuses on the possible acute and long-term effects of immunosuppressant and anti-cancer therapy in the craniofacial complex. 

Gupta holds an M.D. with a specialty in pharmacology and has done additional training in rehabilitation and management of musculoskeletal injuries