Dental discomfort can range from a mild annoyance to debilitating pain that disrupts your quality of life. While traditional pain management methods remain the most effective way to find relief, cannabidiol (CBD) might also help.
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that we get from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t produce a mental or physical high. Instead, it just interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which supports pain regulation, inflammation control, and immune response. So can using CBD relieve dental discomfort? Let’s take a look.
How CBD May Address Dental Discomfort
CBD possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that could potentially help with dental discomfort. The compound may work by interacting with cannabinoid receptors throughout the body, including those in the oral cavity.
For dental pain specifically, CBD might help by reducing inflammation in the gums and surrounding tissues. Inflammation often contributes to the intensity of dental discomfort, whether from tooth decay, gum disease, or dental procedures.
Methods of CBD Application for Dental Issues
Two main methods exist for using CBD in relation to dental discomfort: sublingual oils and edibles.
Sublingual Oils
Placing CBD oil under the tongue allows for rapid absorption through the mucous membranes. It acts fast and starts in the mouth.
CBD Edibles
While slower-acting than sublingual methods, edibles provide longer-lasting and potentially more powerful effects. Edibles also encompass a versatile range of CBD products, from sodas to gummies.
Important Considerations
Though it’s possible to use CBD to relieve dental discomfort, there are some very important considerations to keep in mind. First, never start using CBD without consulting both your dentist and your healthcare provider beforehand. Dental pain often indicates underlying issues that could require professional treatment. Likewise, CBD might interfere with other medications you are prescribed. Basically, CBD should not replace proper dental care.
Additionally, if you get the green light from your healthcare providers, you should still self-regulate your use. Many people go overboard with CBD consumption because the lack of psychoactive effects makes the drug seem less potent. However, you don’t want to overwhelm your body or overcompensate for the pain you’re feeling. For example, let’s say you’re navigating the pain of immediate dentures. One of the benefits of immediate dentures is that they’re a quick solution to a complicated dental problem, but they might not fit your mouth as comfortably as you’d like. But instead of taking 100 milligrams of a CBD edible, start with a much smaller dose of 5 milligrams. From there, you can decide if you need more to alleviate the pain while you wait for your permanent dentures.
This is, of course, just one unique situation. Again, you should consult with your dentist and doctor and regulate your CBD use according to your specific dental concern. Moreover, keep in mind that you must ensure you consume high-quality, tested CBD.
Moving Forward With CBD and Dental Health
While CBD shows promise for managing various types of discomfort, its role in dental care continues to evolve. Current research provides encouraging preliminary results, but more comprehensive studies specific to dental applications are necessary.
Anyone experiencing dental discomfort should prioritize professional dental evaluation and treatment. CBD may serve as a complementary approach under professional guidance, but addressing the root cause of dental issues remains the most important step toward long-term oral health.
