The United States has come a long way when it comes to destigmatizing the usage of cannabis products for a plethora of ailments from anxiety to pain management in both humans and our furry friends. In fact, CBD is legal in all 50 states in some capacity but you should still look into local laws before purchasing or trying to bring it with you while traveling. These days you can drive down the street in many American cities and see businesses advertising that they sell the plant-derived product, but how can you use it to improve your next visit to Sugar Fix? We’re glad to help!
What Is CBD Anyway?
Cannabidiol or CBD is a non-addictive active ingredient in cannabis, but it’s not the psychoactive one that gives you the “high” people associate with marijuana. Many people are skeptical or even afraid to try CBD due to media portrayal and misrepresentation, fear of having a bad experience, or overall just not knowing enough about it. It can be derived a few different ways from either the hemp plant or the marijuana plant but regardless of how it is harvested, it will NOT give you the “high” that many people fear when they hear the letters CBD.
Sometimes when people hear CBD their minds immediately think of the psychoactive effects of marijuana, but they are actually thinking of THC. THC is the active ingredient that comes from the marijuana plant that gives those who use it the high that is associated with it. There is no THC in good CBD products and you can put your mind at rest that you will not be feeling out of control of yourself or your body.
How Does CBD Tie Into Dentistry?
We’re glad you asked! It’s not uncommon for people to harbor a lot of anxiety when it comes to visiting the dentist’s office and we do our best to care for our anxious guests. If you’re feeling you need a little extra to help stave off anxiety, CBD may be able to help you relax before your appointment. Studies have shown that if you take CBD both the night before and the morning of your visit, anxiety is reduced. You will have had a restful sleep, feel relaxed and ready for your appointment the next day. CBD is a great option for those who would rather have a natural option for lessening anxiety.
Pain relief is another huge benefit of cannabidiol. Sufferers of toothaches, TMJ, and headaches rave over the benefits they experience from using CBD. Of course, if ever there is a dental emergency, give Sugar Fix a call so we can take care of you as soon as possible, but if the pain is mild, CBD could be the key to managing it until your visit. Not only does it calm your pain receptors, but it works as an anti-inflammatory to reduce the pressure that may be causing your pain. We recommend taking CBD oil after you’ve been in for more invasive treatments to manage pain in a safe and effective way. Occasionally you may experience nausea after receiving anesthesia, but CBD also has shown that it can reduce these effects. These anti-inflammatory effects have shown to also reduce the risk of periodontal disease, giving you an extra leg up on having a great visit with your hygienist.
How Can You Take CBD?
CBD can be consumed in many different ways, but not all of them are created equally when it comes to benefiting your oral health. The best option for your oral health is to consume it via a tincture under your tongue. The oil has can have an earthy flavor but to most people, it’s relatively tasteless. CBD-infused beverages have risen in popularity at both bars and coffee shops alike and this is another way to ingest the substance with less risk than some other forms. Another way to take CBD would be via edibles, oftentimes in the form of gummies, but just like your standard confectionary gummies, the sugary treats could stick to gums and feed bacterias. You should brush your teeth after taking your CBD gummies if that’s your preferred method. The least desirable way to ingest is to smoke or vape your CBD. The vape market is largely unregulated and you can’t guarantee that you’re getting a good product in the first place. Smoking anything regardless of its healing properties can largely affect your lungs, cause dry mouth, and in turn bad breath among other risks.
Now that you know a little more about how you can use CBD to get a restful sleep, stave off anxiety, and even fight bacteria that could be forming in your mouth, we’ll let you decide if it’s right for you. Remember that we’re always here to help calm your nerves when it comes to dental anxieties with noise-canceling headphones, warm neck pillows, essential oils and so much more when you visit Sugar Fix. If you’re experiencing any pain that CBD just can’t deal with, please contact us and we will be happy to help!