Sir, I would like to inform readers about a new range of products that have recently started appearing on my clinical radar. Cannabidiol (CBD) Oil has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity in the UK in the past years due to frequent media exposure combined with the recent legalisation of cannabis-based prescription medications.1 CBD oil is being presented as a miracle cure, and is claimed to help alleviate symptoms associated with epilepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain and inflammation. However, there is a limited research base to these claims, and most of the research is predominantly focussed on prescription based CBD products.2 In the UK, CBD oil can be sold over the counter, provided that the Tetrahydrocannabinol content is less than 0.2%. Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC is the component of cannabis associated with psychoactive effects or 'high' people experience from cannabis.

CBD oil containing products are often sold as food supplements, and are advertised as a form of natural self-medication. This can understandably be tempting for patients, as it gives them greater autonomy over their own health, but may also lead to increased mis-diagnosis. More CBD oil based products are emerging in the form of toothpastes, mouth sprays and drops. These products are also being marketed as being able to help alleviate anxiety. This poses many potential consequences for dental professionals. Firstly, we do not know what impact using CBD-based products may have on the oral cavity. Also, products with sedating/anxiolytic properties may affect the consent process, and potential drug interactions are currently unknown.

Considering their relatively rapid appearance on the market, it is unsurprising that there are no current guidelines concerning CBD oil use in dentistry. However, as evidence-based practitioners, there is a need for further work on CBD oil in terms of relevant therapeutic applications and potential harmful side effects.