Persistent endodontic infections—often associated with failed root canal treatments—are commonly caused by bacteria that survive traditional disinfection methods and develop resistance to standard antimicrobial therapies. In this laboratory study, researchers examined whether cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), could inhibit bacteria frequently found in chronic dental infections. The study focused on Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans, and Fusobacterium nucleatum, which are known contributors to long-lasting oral infections. (PMC)

Results showed that CBD, CBN, and THC were able to inhibit bacterial growth in two of the tested species, particularly E. faecalis and S. mutans, in both free-floating and biofilm states. Biofilms are especially difficult to treat because they protect bacteria from antimicrobial agents. The cannabinoids reduced biofilm viability and were able to degrade E. faecalis biofilms as concentrations increased. However, the compounds did not demonstrate inhibitory effects against F. nucleatum at the tested levels, suggesting cannabinoids may act selectively depending on bacterial structure and biology. (PMC)

Overall, the findings suggest cannabinoids possess targeted antibacterial properties that may make them useful for future research into dental infection management, particularly as antibiotic resistance continues to rise. Because the study was conducted in vitro (outside the human body), the authors emphasize that clinical trials are necessary to determine whether cannabinoid-based therapies could safely and effectively support treatment of persistent endodontic infections in real patients. (PMC)

Source

Wieczerza C, Zhai H, Askar M, Zhou Z, Paurazas S.Antibacterial Effect of Cannabinoids on Bacteria Associated with Persistent Endodontic Infection (December 2025) Available through the National Library of Medicine (NIH): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12732395/