
Waiting to Inhale? The Rise of Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Terpenes: Medical and Dental Considerations
Saturday, April 25
2 - 5 PM
3 CDE Credits - DDS, DA, DH, AUX
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Despite its rise in social and legal acceptance, public health concerns regarding the use of cannabis remain – especially among dental professionals, since the major routes of administration of cannabis involves the oral cavity. This program will introduce dental professionals to the pharmacology of cannabis, including its various dosage forms, routes of administration and adverse reactions. Special emphasis will be placed on the effects of cannabis use on oral health and dental treatment, as well as the proposed use of cannabis in dentistry for the management of patient anxiety and odontogenic pain.
Course Objectives:
1. Discuss the history and various types of cannabis, as well as its current legal status.
2. Describe the pharmacology of cannabis, including its mechanism of action, routes of administration, available formulations and proposed uses in dentistry.
3. Explain the clinical considerations of cannabis use, including adverse reactions, drug interactions, contraindications and effects on major organ systems.
4. Explore the dental considerations of cannabis, including potential treatment modifications and strategies for patient care planning.
PRESENTER:
Tom Viola, R.Ph., CCP, CDE, CPMP
With more than 30 years of experience as a board-certified pharmacist, clinical educator, professional speaker and published author, Tom Viola has earned his national and international reputation as the go-to specialist for making pharmacology practical and useful for all members of the dental team. As an educator, he has received several awards for outstanding teacher of the year. As an author, Viola has contributed to professional journals and pharmacology textbooks and serves as a consultant to the ADA's Council on Scientific Affairs. As a speaker, he has presented more than 1,000 informative, humorous and engaging continuing education seminars and webinars since 2001.
Conflict of Interest: None

