Specific regulations and emerging scientific evidence support dentists in prescribing cannabis
Explore the scientific foundations and clinical practices that support the use of cannabis in dental treatment
Backed by specific regulations and emerging scientific evidence, dentists are already prescribing cannabis-based products to treat certain pathologies.
This possibility exists due to the therapeutic properties of the plant, such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant effects. Among the pathologies that show detailed responses to the use of medicinal cannabis are:
Orofacial Pain: A systematic review published in JAMA in 2015 analyzed the effects of cannabinoids in managing chronic pain and pointed out benefits that can be extrapolated to orofacial pain, often observed in patients with temporomandibular dysfunction.
Bruxism and Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD): Recent research indicates that the relaxing and pain-modulating effects of cannabinoids may help reduce episodes of bruxism and improve joint function in cases of TMD.
Initial clinical studies show a reduction of symptoms between 35% and 45% in treated groups compared to traditional methods.
Periodontitis: a recent study from the Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU) revealed that cannabidiol (CBD), a bioactive compound of cannabis, has therapeutic potential for treating periodontitis by combating the bacteria responsible for the condition.
Additionally, the use of cannabis as an anxiolytic and for postoperative management has been highlighted by specialists, contributing to a more comprehensive and humanized approach to dental treatment.
Training and Professional Development
The 4th edition of the Brazilian Congress of Medicinal Cannabis is crucial for professionals to update their knowledge and discuss scientific evidence. Taking place from May 22 to 24, 2025, at Expo Center Norte, São Paulo - SP, the last day of the event will feature an exclusive module for dentists.
Check below the confirmed classes and speakers for the Odonto Cannabis Module:
- Plenary session: Dr. Cláudio Myiaki, president of the Federal Council of Dentistry (CFO), Dr. Rogério Kayralla, president of the Regional Council of Dentistry of São Paulo (CROSP), Dr. Wilson Chediek, president of the Paulista Association of Dentists (APCD), lawyers Dr. Marcela Sanches, Dr. Caio Aydar, and Dr. Emílio. Moderator: Cynthia De Carlo
- Role of the Dentist in research, product development, and new therapeutic applications of cannabinoids, far beyond pain. From polymorphisms to precision medicine. Professor: Alethéia Pablos.
- Impact of Endocannabinoid System Modulation, from amateur athletes to high-performance athletes: sleep, anxiety, and performance improvement. Professor: Cynthia De Carlo.
- Periodontal Diseases Professor: Lucine Cristina de Figueiredo
- Bruxism in clinical research in Brazil. Professor: Mabel de Freitas Lopes
In addition to these classes, the session will analyze three clinical cases, demonstrating in practice the impact of therapeutic cannabis use on patients and much more. Click here to secure your ticket.
Future Perspectives
The regulatory landscape points to an expansion of access to cannabis-based products also for Brazilian pharmacies and drugstores, which should occur with the revision of RDC No. 327/2019. This change, combined with the growing volume of scientific evidence, is likely to broaden the restrictions and access to cannabinoid therapy in dentistry.
Training enables dentists to conduct a thorough assessment and personalize treatment, ensuring the safety and efficacy of therapy. The exchange of experiences and the presentation of national research data contribute to the consolidation of medicinal cannabis use as an innovative therapeutic tool.