Endocannabinoid system and periodontitis: mechanisms and therapeutic implications

Abstract

Introduction Periodontitis is a major public health problem. Although the principle of periodontitis therapy is mainly focused on removing dental biofilm and associated factors, its physiopathology enrolls different molecular and inflammatory events related to the host immune system, as the participation of the endocannabinoid system. Objective This review aimed to explore and elucidate the mechanisms and roles of the endocannabinoid system on periodontitis physiopathology and its possibilities for future related therapies. Material and method An electronic search was carried out on the PubMed platform for studies involving the action of the endocannabinoid system on periodontitis. Result Nineteen clinical and preclinical studies were included in this narrative review. Conclusion Cannabinoid receptors type 1 and 2 are integral components of the endocannabinoid system, manifesting in various forms in the periodontal tissues. The actions and mechanisms through which cannabinoid receptors are activated in healthy or inflamed sites remain the focus of ongoing investigations. Moreover, phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids show therapeutic potential, with pre-clinical studies indicating benefits in reducing inflammation and facilitating tissue repair.