Do you require a natural alternative to traditional oral hygiene products? Read on to learn if CBD mouthwashes may help relieve or reduce mouth issues such as gum disease. 

1. How can CBD mouthwash help with oral health? 

Oral health issues people may have include the following(1):

Cold sores and canker sores: Painful sores in and around the mouth and on the lips due to bacteria or viruses

Thrush: A yeast infection resulting in white patches in the mouth

Dry mouth: A lack of saliva caused by certain diseases and some medicines

Bad breath: May result from substandard dental habits

Gum disease: May vary in severity from mild tenderness of the gums to bleeding and receding gums

Research suggested that CBD may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties(2-3). CBD mouthwashes may deliver an antibacterial solution between teeth and around gums.

2. What evidence or research exists saying that CBD mouthwash helps with oral health?

A medical study that investigated the antibacterial effects of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) showed that CBD may destroy bacteria and fight infections(4).

CBD products may also combat pain and inflammation(5-6).

Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management published a study where CBD and THC showed anti-inflammatory, anti-pain, and non-psychoactive properties(7).

CBD’s potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may explain why even large companies like Colgate have developed CBD toothpaste and mouthwashes.

3. Is there any evidence that CBD mouthwash is not beneficial? 

Researchers have conducted no definitive studies on the potential side effects of CBD mouthwash.

Any skincare products, including CBD topicals, may induce side effects such as skin irritation, rashes, or allergic reactions(8). However, the delivery system of mouthwashes differs from topicals.

Thus, more research is warranted on the efficacy and potential side effects of cannabidiol on teeth and gums.

4. Will CBD mouthwash interact with any current medication I may be taking?

Cannabidiol may alter the effects of particular medications(9). For example, CBD may interfere with liver enzymes that metabolize medications(10).

You should talk to your dentist before taking CBD. They can guide you on CBD’s usage, dosage, and drug interactions.

5. Are there other treatments or products I should consider alongside CBD mouthwash?

You can help protect your oral health with these products and methods(11):

    • Brush your teeth at least twice daily for two minutes with a soft-bristled brush

    • Floss daily

    • Consume a healthy diet and minimize sugary foods and drinks

    • Replace your toothbrush every three or four months

    • Avoid tobacco use

    • Schedule at least two dental cleanings yearly and regular checkups

    • Contact a dentist immediately if you experience oral health issues

6. Can I fail a drug test if I use CBD mouthwash?

The accumulation of THC from full-spectrum CBD oil products may increase to detectable levels(12).  Such products typically contain THC.

Meanwhile, broad-spectrum CBD products also contain a wide array of cannabis-derived compounds. However, they are typically THC-free.

Thus, long-term use of full-spectrum products may pose a risk for drug tests to detect THC over time.

7. How much CBD mouthwash should I use? 

Researchers have conducted no studies on the ideal dosage for CBD mouthwash.

You should always follow a product label’s instructions regarding the CBD mouthwash’s dosage and frequency. Manufacturers often recommend using mouthwash twice in 24 hours, during the morning and evening.

If you experience side effects, consider contacting your dentist for guidance.

8. What are the ingredients of CBD mouthwash?

CBD mouthwashes contain cannabidiol, one of at least 80 cannabis-derived compounds known as cannabinoids. CBD products are typically derived from hemp plants and do not induce psychoactive effects, unlike THC.

Fluoride is one of the common ingredients in mouthwashes. It is a chemical compound that contains fluorine and another element.

Fluoride can significantly improve dental health by strengthening tooth enamel(13). The substance makes teeth more resistant to tooth decay and reduces the amount of acid produced by tooth bacteria.

9. How should I use CBD mouthwash?

Here are some general guidelines for using CBD mouthwash:

    • Read the product label’s directions and recommendations

    • Pour the label’s indicated dosage

    • Gargle for as long as the instructions’ suggested duration, then spit out the mouthwash

    • Adhere to the product’s recommended usage frequency, such as twice daily


  1. Mouth Disorders
    https://medlineplus.gov/mouthdisorders.html
  2. Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023045/
  3. The Antimicrobial Activity of Cannabinoids
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7400265/
  4. Antibacterial activity of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1085130/
  5. Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023045/
  6. Characterization of the Analgesic Effect of CBD in Healthy, Normal Volunteers
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/
  7. Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/
  8. Should I Use CBD Products on My Skin?
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/cbd-beauty-products.html
  9. CBD and other medications: Proceed with caution
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-and-other-medications-proceed-with-caution-2021011121743
  10. CBD and other medications: Proceed with caution
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-and-other-medications-proceed-with-caution-2021011121743
  11. Oral health: A window to your overall health
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
  12. Can You Take CBD and Pass a Drug Test?
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cbd/can-you-take-cbd-and-pass-a-drug-test/
  13. Fluoride
    https://www.dentalhealth.org/fluoride
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