Rutgers University researchers discovered that cannabidiol (CBD) reduces acute dental pain. The findings published in the Journal of Dental Research indicated that CBD may be just as effective as opioid painkillers without addictive and psychoactive effects.
Some key findings (such as improved pain levels, tooth function, and bite force) suggest CBD’s potential for supporting dental wellness. CBD holds promise for reducing acute pain and inflammation caused by dental conditions. This cannabinoid compound can be used instead of opioid medications, which may not be suitable or practical for many patient populations.
This area of terpenoid and cannabinoid research may contribute to more efficient and safer cannabinoid product development that is X non-opioid based pain management. Lead study author and associate professor at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Vanessa Chrepa, explained the importance of CBD’s therapeutic potential: “The first line of defense for dental pain has always been anti-inflammatory medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve), but many patients can’t take such medications or can’t get sufficient relief from them, so dentists have traditionally been among the largest prescribers of opioid medications, either alone or in combination with these other medications.” CBD products could reduce opioid abuse and addiction.
The CBD study included 61 participants with severe dental pain. Participants were randomly selected to receive one of two treatments: Epidiolex (pure CBD) or a placebo. Researchers tracked discomfort levels for three hours using a visual analog scale (VAS). Participants given CBD treatment experienced more significant pain reduction than did the placebo group. CBD users reported enhanced bite force, better tooth function, and improved chewing ability.
The research team is planning a larger-scale phase III clinical trial to assess CBD’s efficacy and safety for pain management. Further research will help patients with acute dental pain and inflammation.
Sources: Eureka News Alert, Journal of Dental Research