A combination of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) reduced inflammatory signaling while promoting several processes involved in tissue repair in human dental pulp cells, according to a new study.
The research, published September 10 in the Journal of Endodontics, examined whether the two major marijuana-derived cannabinoids could work together to address inflammation, pain-related signaling and healing in dental pulp, the soft tissue inside teeth containing nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.
Researchers exposed human dental pulp cells to lipopolysaccharide to trigger an inflammatory response and then treated them with CBD, THC or a combination of the two. CBD was administered at 2.5 micrograms per milliliter and THC at 0.6 micrograms per milliliter.
The combination produced stronger anti-inflammatory effects than either cannabinoid alone. CBD and THC together reduced levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-12 and IL-1β while increasing expression of IL-10, which plays an anti-inflammatory role.
Researchers also found changes in signaling associated with pain perception. The combined treatment increased expression of the cannabinoid receptors CNR1 and CNR2 and modulated TRPV1, a receptor involved in pain and inflammatory signaling.
Beyond reducing inflammation, the combination enhanced cell proliferation and migration, two processes important for tissue healing. Researchers also observed increased mineralized nodule formation and higher expression of DMP1, a marker associated with the formation of dentin-producing cells.
Markers linked to blood vessel formation and tissue regeneration, including VEGF and bFGF, were also increased following combined cannabinoid treatment.
The researchers concluded that the findings provide in vitro evidence that combined CBD and THC treatment could potentially support dental pulp healing by simultaneously addressing inflammation, pain signaling and regenerative processes.
The results do not establish that marijuana or cannabinoid products can treat dental conditions in patients. The study was conducted in cultured human cells, and clinical research would be necessary to determine whether the effects translate to people.
