Does Cannabis Help Toothache?
Cannabis can be helpful for toothaches because of its medicinal characteristics. The use of cannabidiol (CBD), in particular, may be beneficial for people suffering from mild to severe tooth pain. This could be because this cannabis compound is thought to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Toothaches are one of the most painful and frustrating conditions. A toothache can impede the ability to eat, talk, or even function normally. The use of cannabidiol (CBD) and whole-cannabis products may offer a more natural and health-friendly way to treat a toothache.
CBD Appears to Help with Tooth Pain
CBD appears to help with tooth pain according to current research. A study published in 2023 by researchers at Rutgers University in the Journal of Dental Research studied the effects of CBD on emergency acute dental pain.
The study revealed that tooth pain was dramatically reduced with the administration of CBD. Participants in the study reported feeling relief within a few hours of taking CBD. The findings of this research support the idea that CBD may be used as a natural way to relieve dental pain.
Best Cannabinoids & Cannabis Products for Tooth Pain
Some of the best cannabis strains for inflammation-related pain include high-CBD strains like AC/DC and Cannatonic. Sublingual CBD oils and tinctures are often used for dental pain management because they are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. The following are some of the top cannabis products for tooth pain:
1. CBD Oils and Tinctures
CBD oils and tinctures can be used sublingually for quick results or mixed with food and drinks. A full-spectrum oil such as Extra Relief 30:2:1—which features a powerful 30:2:1 ratio of CBD to THC to CBC—may help to relieve acute or chronic tooth pain.
These types of CBD oils can also help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm. CBD oils and tinctures can be easily incorporated into daily activities, which is beneficial for people looking for a discreet way to treat dental pain with cannabis.
2. Topicals
Cannabis-infused topical creams and balms contain pain-relieving properties that may help with acute dental pain. These creams can be applied and massaged into the gum tissue surrounding the aching tooth (just make sure it’s a non-toxic formula before putting it in your mouth). Treating dental pain with topicals allows cannabis users to deliver cannabinoids directly to the target area.
Cannabis topicals provide localized pain relief and may help with the throbbing pain that often comes with a toothache. Topicals that have a balance of THC and CBD may provide even more effective pain relief because the cannabinoids in these products can work together.
3. Edibles
Cannabis-infused edibles are another alternative for treating dental pain that doesn’t require smoking marijuana. The cannabinoids in edibles may take longer to enter the bloodstream compared to oils. However, edibles have the advantage of being an easy and fun way of consuming cannabis.
Look for products that have an even ratio of THC and CBD for effective relief. Popular examples of edibles include gummies, chocolates, and various types of baked goods. It's advisable to take a lower dose and wait for at least two hours before taking another to prevent overconsumption. Softer edibles such as gummies may also be preferable to hard candies if you have an aching tooth.
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
There are a number of common factors that can contribute to experiencing pain in your teeth. Toothache may be temporarily alleviated by marijuana but it's also important to find the underlying cause of the pain. The most common causes of tooth pain include:
1. Cavities
Cavities (holes in the teeth) occur because of tooth decay. This can be painful—especially when pressure is applied to areas with decayed enamel or when consuming hot or cold substances. Chronic cavities can lead to tooth loss.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease (such as gingivitis and periodontitis) causes inflammation and infection in the tissues that support surrounding teeth. Symptoms of gum disease include redness and puffiness, bleeding, or even bad breath. Gum disease can lead to chronic pain and tooth loss if not treated.
3. Dental Abscess
An abscessed tooth is when the pulp of the tooth becomes infected. When this happens, pus can begin to accumulate within the tooth. This condition can be extremely painful. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and even enter the bloodstream.
4. Tooth Sensitivity
Some people experience tooth sensitivity, which can make drinking hot or cold beverages uncomfortable. Sometimes tooth pain can occur after invasive dental procedures. Cannabis products may help manage postoperative pain by reducing inflammation.
Cannabis Can Ease Toothache Temporarily
Research supports the idea that weed and its properties can be effective for pain reduction in toothaches. A toothache can be a painful condition that isn't always solved by conventional medicine. Some cannabis users may also find that consuming cannabis helps to alleviate dental anxiety.
Popular products for dental pain relief include tinctures, oils, and topicals that contain pain-relieving properties. Edibles offer an alternative for acute toothache pain. Whether or not you decide to try cannabis for toothache, remember to visit a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan that takes away the toothache for good.