Component 10: "Marijuana 101 - Breaking the Stigma: Helping Your Patients Achieve Healthier and Clean Marijuana Experiences."

Kimberly Farley holds a Master of Science in Leadership in Health Care from Nova Southeastern University and brings over 25 years of experience in clinical practice, education, and educational leadership. She is deeply passionate about teaching clinical courses and is known for her expertise in designing activities that enhance the student learning experience. Kimberly has authored several published articles on marijuana and pain management. She is also the founder of Oral Health & Wellness Learning LLC (OHWL), a company focused on improving oral health equity and literacy, and breaking the stigma surrounding cannabis through education, while promoting both oral and overall health. Kimberly is an active member of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, National Dental Hygiene Association, and the American Dental Educators Association. She is licensed in New York, Maryland, and Washington, DC.

 Overview:  

As cannabis use becomes more prevalent and its legal status evolves, dental professionals must be prepared to manage patients under its influence, but we cannot effectively do so without a deeper understanding of marijuana. Recent studies strongly suggest that marijuana is effective with pain management, reducing anxiety, and treatment with neurological disorders. There is also research suggesting the potential application of marijuana in dentistry. As more states legalize marijuana, it’s essential for practitioners to stay open-minded and adaptable to these evolving trends in healthcare. This course will provide dental providers with the history and explanation of marijuana, knowledge on the physiological effects of cannabis on oral health, how to navigate complex patient interactions, and how to develop a best-practice approach tailored to this patient population.

Objectives:   

•   Discuss the history of cannabis  

•   Explain the Endocannabinoid System 

•   Examine CBD and THC 

•   Explore the health and medical advantages of marijuana

•   Identify and explain physiological effects of cannabis on the oral cavity,

    including impacts on dental treatment

•   Demonstrate the ability to employ patient communication techniques to discuss cannabis use,

    successfully guiding conversations to promote informed patient care

To register and pay online go to: https://vdha.wildapricot.org/event-6098502

Please register by Saturday, April 5, 2025 (ONLY credit / debit cards accepted) 

*Use the same email address you registered with for the day of the event

Course Fees:  ADHA / VDHA Member - $25.00                       
                        Non ADHA Member - $50.00
                        Current SCADHA Member - FREE

Earn (2) CE credit hours by attending this event in its entirety. No refund for cancellation one week prior to course date. Course will begin promptly at posted time. Northwest Dental Hygienists' Component is an approved course provider by the Virginia Board of Dentistry.

If you have any questions, contact:
Susan Daugherty, BS, RDH
Northwest Dental Hygienists' Component, CE Chairperson
Email - Flossy3511@aol.com