Can CBD Help With Toothaches?

There's no doubt that toothache pain can be severe enough to leave you reeling. At that time, finding some relief may become urgent. While over-the-counter pain medicines are often the first option when dealing with acute pain, some may want to try a more natural route and wonder if CBD oil could help.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound that is found in abundance in cannabis (marijuana or hemp) plants. While research on exactly how CBD works in the body is limited, there is some evidence that it is effective for pain relief. It also appears to be an anti-inflammatory, and it can help reduce anxiety (via The Healthy). In a high-quality CBD product, that's all without any tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — the psychoactive component of marijuana plants that's responsible for creating a "high."

There aren't many studies specifically on CBD use as it relates to toothaches, but that doesn't mean it doesn't help.

CBD may help with dental pain

"A true toothache is caused by inflammation of the pulp inside the tooth," explains Mark Burhenne, DDS, founder of AsktheDentist.com. "With tooth pain the pulp swells, and because it's in a space that doesn't allow expansion, you get pain ... But the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD can help with the pain." Because of that, some dental practices, like Rejuvenation Dentistry in New York, regularly use CBD oil to help alleviate dental pain.

In 2017, the World Health Organization reported that CBD is considered safe to use (per CNET). However, some concerns remain. CBD can cause side effects, including diarrhea, dry mouth, and fatigue. Also, there's no consensus on what dosage is safe and effective to use for dental pain, and the market is poorly regulated. Mislabelled products are widespread, making it hard to know exactly what you're buying.

All in all, CBD might help relieve pain from a toothache, but check with your dentist before trying it.