Tooth, Tension & THC-Free: Why Your Dentist Is Talking About CBD (and Its Plant-Based Pals)
By Dr. Kathleen Carson
When most people hear "CBD," they picture a wellness aisle staple (maybe a tincture, gummy, or lotion) promising a better night’s sleep. But what if your dentist brings it up? No, you didn’t mishear. Cannabidiol (CBD) and its botanical buddies are making their way into conversations far beyond yoga studios and health-food stores—straight into the dental chair.
So why is a tooth doc talking hemp? Let’s dive in.
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over 100 natural compounds called Phyto cannabinoids found in the cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike THC—the more famous (and psychoactive) cousin—CBD won’t get you high. Instead, it works with a remarkable built-in system in your body called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS helps regulate critical functions like sleep, pain, mood, inflammation, and even immune response.
But CBD doesn’t work alone. Other non-intoxicating Phyto cannabinoids, like CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol), are gaining attention for their own potential benefits—everything from easing muscle tension to supporting restful sleep. Think of them as nature’s wellness toolkit.
Fun fact: Your body naturally produces its own cannabinoids—called endocannabinoids. Taking CBD is like giving that internal system a little plant-powered boost.
Why would a dentist care about CBD? For a variety of reasons. You may not think of your dentist as someone who dabbles in natural wellness, but as a dental professional, I often see patients dealing with more than just cavities and cleanings. Jaw clenching, TMJ pain, migraines, dental anxiety, and even poor sleep can all show up in the dental chair. And all of these issues? They're closely connected to the nervous system and inflammation—areas where cannabinoids may offer support.
Here’s how that might look in practice:
Jaw clenching or TMJ tension: CBD’s anti-inflammatory and calming properties may help relax the overworked muscles around the jaw, offering relief from pain and tension.
Dental anxiety: Some patients find that CBD helps ease nerves before appointments, making procedures feel less stressful.
Sleep issues & nasal breathing: CBD and other cannabinoids may promote deeper relaxation and reduce inflammation in the airway, supporting better breathing during sleep. And since nasal breathing is essential for oxygen intake, oral health, and overall energy levels, this benefit extends well beyond bedtime.
You need a balanced, whole-body approach. Of course, CBD isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s not a replacement for professional dental care. But for some, incorporating Phyto cannabinoids can be a helpful, science-backed addition to a broader wellness plan.
My interest in CBD comes from a desire to treat the whole person, not just the teeth. We now understand that oral health doesn’t exist in a vacuum, it’s closely connected to your sleep, stress, breathing, and even mental health. By exploring gentle, natural tools like CBD, we open new pathways to comfort, healing, and balance.
So next time your dentist mentions CBD, don’t be surprised. It just might be part of a bigger picture that keeps you smiling from the inside out.
