CBD for Dental Pain: A Natural Alternative Worth Considering?

Toothaches are no joke. If you've ever had one, you know how much it can disrupt your day—or your entire week. The usual solutions? Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or in more severe cases, prescription opioids. But while they can help, they also come with their own issues, from stomach problems to, in the case of opioids, the risk of addiction.

But what if there was another option? One that’s natural, effective, and doesn’t come with the same baggage as traditional painkillers? That’s where CBD comes in.

A recent study looked at CBD’s ability to relieve acute dental pain, and the results were impressive. The study divided participants with severe toothaches into three groups: one took a lower dose of CBD (10 mg/kg), another took a higher dose (20 mg/kg), and the third took a placebo. The results? Those who took CBD saw a big drop in their pain levels—up to 73%—within three hours. Even better, those who took the higher dose felt relief even faster, with noticeable effects kicking in within 15 minutes.

CBD didn’t just dull the pain—it actually improved function, too. Participants in the CBD groups saw an increase in their bite force, meaning they were able to chew and apply pressure without the same level of discomfort. That’s a big deal, especially when you think about how much we rely on our teeth for everyday life.

Of course, CBD isn’t perfect. Some participants experienced mild side effects like drowsiness and stomach discomfort. But compared to the potential risks of opioids or the limitations of other painkillers, it’s a tradeoff many might be willing to consider.

So, what does this mean for the future of pain management? Could we see dentists recommending CBD as a first-line treatment for toothaches? It’s possible. More research is needed, but this study adds to the growing body of evidence that CBD isn’t just a trendy wellness fad—it’s a legitimate, science-backed solution for real pain.

If you’ve ever had a toothache that made you desperate for relief, you know how valuable another option could be. Maybe one day, instead of reaching for a bottle of ibuprofen, more people will be turning to CBD.

What about you? Would you consider trying CBD for dental pain, or do you prefer to stick with more traditional pain relievers? Let’s talk!

Chrepa, V., Villasenor, S., Mauney, A., Kotsakis, G., & Macpherson, L. (2024). Cannabidiol as an Alternative Analgesic for Acute Dental Pain. Journal of dental research, 103(3), 235–242. https://doi.org/10.1177/00220345231200814

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