Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol in oral disorders: A systematic review of clinical evidence.

BACKGROUND: This review aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) for management of oral disorders, focusing on its effectiveness in treatment (therapy) of orofacial pain, inflammation, and mucosal lesions.

TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED: This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines. A comprehensive search in 5 databases included randomized controlled trials and nonrandomized trials evaluating CBD's clinical effects on oral disorders. Inclusion criteria were applied independently by 2 reviewers using predefined eligibility parameters.

RESULTS: Of 4,093 records, 7 studies met inclusion criteria: 6 randomized controlled trials and 1 nonrandomized clinical study. Topical and intraoral CBD formulations had beneficial effects in reducing pain, muscle tension, gingival inflammation, bacterial load, and aphthous ulcer symptoms. No serious adverse effects were reported. Heterogeneity in dosage, formulation, follow-up duration, and outcome measures limited direct comparison across studies and precluded meta-analysis.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: CBD may serve as a safe adjunct in managing oral pain and inflammation. Its integration into dental care protocols requires further validation through standardized, long-term clinical trials to ensure efficacy and safety.