If you’re scared of visiting the dentist, then you’re certainly not alone. Surveys have revealed that up to 53% of the UK population suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia, as it’s also known. Furthermore, 17% of the population have such an intense fear of the dentist that they refuse to visit or undergo essential dental treatment. Put into perspective, it means that one in six people are potentially missing regular dental check-ups and not getting dental work done when it’s needed most.
There is much discussion about whether dentists should recommend CBD oil for dental anxiety and tooth pain, and since August 8th is National CBD Day, what better time to discuss the topic! So, let’s jump in and take a closer look!
CBD – What exactly is it?
Cannabidiol or CBD for short, is a natural substance found in the Cannabis Sativa plant. Not to be confused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active ingredient found in the same plant, CBD doesn’t produce the sense of intoxication or ‘high’ generally associated with marijuana. In contrast, studies claim CBD contains properties that can effectively treat symptoms related to anxiety, depression, pain, insomnia, seizures and more.
CBD comes in various forms, including oil, sprays, capsules, gummies, vapes, and topical creams. But did you know that CBD is also present in some toothpastes and mouthwashes? It’s true. Using such products at home is said to improve oral health and keep cavities at bay.
So, now you understand more about CBD oil, let’s get back to the subject of this article.
CBD oil for dental anxiety – Can it really help?
Researchers are still exploring the many ways people can benefit from CBD, with one of those being to help reduce dental anxiety.
So how does it work?
CBD binds to many receptors throughout the body, which explains why it’s considered a treatment for a whole host of health conditions. When used to relieve anxiety, CBD acts on receptors in the brain that process fear, helping the user feel calmer and less anxious after taking a dose.
According to a 2020 review published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, CBD is anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressive, meaning it can also help reduce inflammation and pain which is particularly beneficial whether you’re waiting to see a dentist for treatment, suffering from periodontal disease, or recovering following a procedure or surgery.
Research is still fairly new, however, so while we’re excited about helping our patients manage dental pain, we want to know more before fully recommending.
If you’re interested in CBD oil to treat your dental anxiety or relieve tooth pain, it’s best to seek guidance from a medical professional. Like any medication, there are risks and side effects associated with taking CBD. It could also have a negative impact on other health problems or medications you may have. So, talk to your family GP before taking CBD oil as dosage levels are important.
Besides CBD for dental anxiety, how else can you calm your nerves?
Managing dental anxiety can be a lifelong struggle for some people. However, things like listening to your favourite music or podcasts before your visit and during the procedure and having good communication with your dentist and hygienist can help reduce dental anxiety.
You can also enquire about dental sedation to help you relax. Types of sedation include:
- Laughing gas for mild anxiety – nitrous oxide breathed through a small nose piece
- Oral conscious sedation – a sedative taken in pill form an hour before treatment
- IV sedation – intravenous sedation for patients wishing to remain conscious but blissfully unaware of the procedure
Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you from getting the dental treatment you need
At Foxbury Dental, patient care and comfort is at the centre of everything we do from our calm and soothing environment (designed to feel like a home-from-home) to our friendly, caring dental team.
As a private dentist, we schedule longer appointments than the NHS, giving our dentists more time to get acquainted with patients, while explaining all treatments in full.
Appointments are never rushed and patients are encouraged to ask any questions along the way. As patients relax under our care, they feel their anxieties float away – and dare we say it – many look forward to coming back to see us!
Managing your oral hygiene with regular dental check-ups can help prevent dental complications from arising and reward you with a winning smile. The most important thing is to try and stay on top of regular visits. Doing so can make the entire process from booking an appointment to sailing through it – much easier on many levels.If you suffer from dental anxiety, let us know at the time of booking and we’ll pull out all the stops to help you feel more relaxed and in control during your visit. Call us today on 01858 455 100 to schedule a check-up or use our online booking system.