Oral antimicrobial effects of cannabidiol

Abstract

Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) is known for its diverse benefits, encompassing analgesic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-pruritic, and anti-cancer properties. This thesis aimed to assess the antimicrobial effects of CBD against oral microorganisms leading to dental caries and periodontal diseases. Methods: Pilot clinical trials were conducted to investigate the effects of CBD on Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. The first pilot study aimed to compare the anticaries effect of 10mg CBD-infused chewing gum and xylitol gum using the CariScreenTM meter device utilizing adenosine triphosphate bioluminescent technology to measure cariogenic bacterial load in adults at high or extremely high risk for dental caries. In the second pilot clinical trial, the impact of 300 mg Nano CBD-infused lozenges and sugar-free candy on the relative abundance of salivary S. mutans was assessed via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The third clinical trial examined the subgingival antimicrobial effects of 10,000 mg CBD Isolate oil compared to povidone-iodine against Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in adults with periodontal diseases, also utilizing qPCR analysis. Results: Analysis of the clinical trials indicated that CBD-infused gum had no significant effect on salivary cariogenic bacteria. The second trial revealed CBD could potentially reduce the relative abundance of salivary S.mutans (p=0.0299). The results of the third trial revealed the subgingival application of 10,000 mg CBD Isolate oil or PI does not exhibit antimicrobial effects against Aa and Pg in adults with periodontal diseases. Conclusion: CBD has the potential oral antimicrobial properties and may impact the abundance of cariogenic bacteria such as S. mutans in saliva, a primary factor contributing to dental caries disease. These findings highlight the promising role of cannabidiol in dental care and warrant further exploration of its therapeutic potential in oral health. There is a need for further research to investigate the oral health benefits of cannabinoids.