THE THERAPEUTIC USE OF CANNABIS SATIVA IN DENTISTRY: PERSPECTIVES, APPLICATIONS, AND ETHICAL CHALLENGES

Abstract

The medicinal use of Cannabis sativa dates back millennia, with records of its application in ancient civilizations such as the Chinese, Indian, and Egyptian, where it was employed in the treatment of pain, inflammation, and neurological disorders. In the 19th century, the plant became part of Western medicine, used to relieve symptoms such as muscle spasms, insomnia, and migraines. However, the adoption of prohibitionist policies throughout the 20th century led to its criminalization and a decline in its therapeutic use. In recent decades, with the advancement of scientific research and the rediscovery of its active compounds — especially cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — Cannabis sativa has once again been considered a viable therapeutic alternative in various health fields, including dentistry, sparking growing scientific and ethical interest.The choice of this topic for the Undergraduate Thesis is justified by the remarkable growth of scientific investigations into cannabinoids and their potential clinical applications. Dentistry, in particular, presents itself as a promising field for the incorporation of these compounds, especially in pain management, inflammation control, and anxiety reduction in patients. According to Cannabis & Saúde (2023), the search for innovative therapies reflects a global trend aimed at promoting the well-being and quality of life of dental patients.In this context, cannabinoids emerge as therapeutic agents of great potential due to their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and antimicrobial properties, as evidenced by recent studies (Dental Office, 2023). In addition to applications in the treatment of orofacial pain and inflammatory conditions, there is growing interest in the use of these compounds as adjuvants in clinical interventions, contributing to more humane and effective care (Jornal Opção, 2021).Thus, the central objective of this work is to analyze the benefits and challenges associated with the use of the active principles of Cannabis sativa in dental practice. It seeks to understand how the incorporation of compounds such as CBD and THC can contribute to the clinical management of pain, inflammation, and anxiety, while also considering the possible limitations and risks associated with their use.The research is guided by the following central question: what are the therapeutic possibilities of using Cannabis sativa in dentistry, and what are the ethical, scientific, and legal challenges related to its clinical application? As Ferreira (2022) points out, this debate requires a careful analysis based on scientific evidence, legal norms, and ethical principles that guide the adoption of innovative therapies in dentistry.To address this question, the study is structured into chapters that cover: the historical and conceptual overview of the plant, identification of its main active compounds, relevant legal aspects, analysis of therapeutic benefits, and ethical and