Using CBD For Tooth Pain: Does It Offer Natural Pain Relief?

Recently,  there has been a shift in the public perception of the use of cannabidiol-based products (CBD). Multiple data have surfaced claiming the therapeutic benefits of these products. 

One such benefit is in the treatment of dental pain. Can the use of CBD ease tooth pain without the ‘high’ associated with other products of this plant such as THC?

Well, this article aims to find out. Here, we will also cover how CBD contributes to dental health, the types available for tooth pain, and how to use them. If you're looking for alternatives for treating tooth pain besides conventional methods, then you're in the right place.

One of the two primary cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, Cannabis sativa is CBD Cannabidiol). The second is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Both of these compounds can contribute positively to your health. CBD, however, can achieve this without inducing a  ‘high’.

Almost everyone has experienced one form of toothache or another and testified to how inconvenient the experience is. 

This is because the pulp inside your tooth is made up of a soft material surrounded by nerves and blood vessels, hence, it is a very sensitive area and is prone to severe pain. 

There are a lot of causes of tooth pain some of which are :

• Tooth Decay: This is commonly referred to as a cavity. This occurs when acid present in the mouth washes away tooth enamel.
• Abscessed Tooth: A tooth abscess is best explained as the presence of pus from a bacterial infection. Abscesses cannot only affect the tooth involved but also cause harm to adjacent teeth. 

• Post Operative Tooth Pain: Dental surgery includes procedures such as tooth removals, root canals, and gum surgery. All of which can cause extreme pain without the use of painkillers.

Additionally, the build of plaque and growth of wisdom teeth are also common causes of tooth pain.

Not all tooth pain experienced is the same. The different types of tooth pain can indicate different problems. The different types of tooth pain are:

Usually, this kind of pain can occur at the far end of the mouth and is usually indicative of a wisdom tooth that does not have enough room to develop properly. Therefore,  causing complications.

This kind of pain is usually felt when exposed to certain stimuli such as taking ice cream or drinking a hot cup of tea. If you feel this kind of pain, you most likely suffer from a receding gum line or an abscessed tooth. 

If you experience consistent dull pain in your tooth, you might suffer from tooth decay or even nerve damage. 

An intense throbbing pain felt in your tooth is a strong indication that your tooth is infected. If you experience this pain, please make an appointment to see a dentist immediately.

CBD contains properties that can reduce tooth pain.

CBD contains anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it can successfully reduce inflammation in conditions like periodontitis. Periodontitis is a condition that causes the gums to shrink and if not treated, inevitably causes the loss of teeth.

CBD can relieve tooth pain. However, depending on the method by which it is ingested, it may take a while before its effect will be felt. 

Sublingual applications are fast-acting, taking only five minutes for results to be felt and they can last for about six hours. On the flip side, edibles may take up to an hour for their effect to manifest and their effect lasts about six hours as well.

Do you experience anxiety before a dental procedure that even the calmest dentists can't seem to suppress those nerves? 

You're not alone in this fear. A good number of the population experience dental anxiety. CBD can reduce dental anxiety by acting on the part of the brain that processes fear. Hence, stimulating a soothing feeling and effectively reducing anxiety. 

As much as CBD can be beneficial to your oral health in several ways, it does not come without its risks. You should always discuss your pain first with a dentist or your primary care physician before jumping into CBD to resolve what could be a much larger problem. 

Using CBD for tooth pain certainly comes with its benefits which include:

CBD is said to contain antibacterial properties. This implies that CBD can improve your oral health by destroying bacteria that cause infections. 

Because CBD has trace amounts of THC, you can enjoy its medical benefits without having to deal with a high.

As with any drug, CBD does not come without its disadvantages. Especially since CBD is still undergoing studies to further understand its medical capabilities.

CBD has been found to react with other medications like blood thinners and sedatives.

 CBD’s reaction with these drugs can cause adverse reactions hence, aggravating the medical conditions. You must consult with your doctor and inform your doctor that you use CBD before you are prescribed any drugs to avoid any more risks to your health.

Saliva is very essential to oral health. It helps in the process of digestion and reduces bacterial growth. CBD tends to cause dry mouth and the absence of saliva can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Leukoplakia is the development of white patches inside your mouth. These white patches can be seen on the gums, tongue, and insides of your cheeks. 

Leukoplakia is a side effect of smoking cannabis, and although they are not cancerous, they increase the risk for the development of oral cancer.

Although CBD is obtained naturally from the cannabis plant, patients can experience some side effects when they use it. Some common side effects include: 

• Fatigue
• Change in appetite 
• Fluctuating body weight 
• Diarrhea

We’ve included the types/varieties of CBD formulations to consider with: 

CBD Oil drops can be taken by placing drops under the tongue.  Alternatively, it can be mixed with food or beverages. 

CBD oil/ tinctures can provide relief for wisdom tooth pain and toothache. It can also help to relieve anxiety and improve sleep. 

CBD soft capsules are another alternative, especially if you experience extreme pain that may be further irritated by gummies or oil. 

In case you'd prefer something sweet but can still provide your dose of CBD. Gummies are sweet but still provide relief from oral pain.

While you should always consult a dentist/physician before taking CBD for any pain, below we’ve included the general dosage and frequency of CBD for most users. 

One dropper which is 1 mL of CBD oil can be taken about 2-3 times per day. 

One capsule should be taken per day. This is best taken after meals. 

One gummy should be taken before, during, or after meals.

CBD products are abundant in the market, so it's understandable to get confused about which products to choose. These are some ways that can guide you in your decision.

You can ask doctors and dentists who use CBD in their medical practice. They will be able to recommend brands that produce high-quality CBD that will not compromise your dental health.

Don't neglect the content label on the brand of CBD you intend to purchase. Here are a couple of things you should look out for:

• THC Levels: there should be almost no THC level in your CBD 
• Extraction Process: ensure that the brand you have chosen uses safe solvents in their extraction process 
• Third-Party Lab Testing: don't neglect this step. Be certain that the purity of the CBD has been tested by an independent lab.

Tooth pain is one of the most inconvenient experiences that can be felt. Sometimes,  conventional medication is not enough to reduce the pain and torture. CBD may be a potential alternative in the treatment of tooth pain. 

However, more research is being done to uncover how CBD can further be explored for its benefits. In the meantime, if you have decided to benefit from its oral health benefits, make sure you choose a trusted brand, and don't forget to inform your medical practitioner.

If you’re curious about additional CBD information, check out the BATCH Blog today. We have a variety of CBD products to choose from, no matter the preference!

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