The Role of Pain Management After Dental Surgery
You have probably taken some medicine for a headache to help manage the pain. With dental surgeries, you are usually also given medicine for the pain that you experience after the procedures. When dental pain is controlled, you will feel better. Pain management can be challenging and complex depending on the type of dental procedure you are having done to your teeth. The level of pain experience is different from one person to another. Generally, dental procedures that are done on the surface of the tooth create no or little inflammation response. However, when soft tissues are traumatized from oral surgery such as third molar or “wisdom tooth” extraction and root canal treatments, pain can be expected during and after your dental visit. Chronic pain management is an integral part of a good recovery. In addition to keeping you comfortable during and after your stay, pain control can help speed recovery and reduce complications from oral surgery.
Pain management options after oral surgery
Your dentist can prescribe oral medication to reduce pain after surgery. Two classes of drugs can be used to manage pain. The first class is non-opioid drugs such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen that can be bought over the counter. Tylenol and Ibuprofen are very effective in managing post-operative pain. Generally, these over the counter drugs are all that you will need following dental surgery. The second class is opioids such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, or acetaminophen with codeine. Pain medication containing opioids cannot be obtained over the counter and requires a prescription from your dentist. Pain management with opioids is generally safe when used for short periods is and can be highly effective in managing severe pain. However, when used for long periods, it can pose a significant risk to your health.
If you have questions about which class of pain management medication use after your surgery, be sure to talk to your dentist about how these types of drugs can affect you. Generally, over the counter medications will be recommended by your dentist for most procedures to control pain. If your dentist prescribes an opioid pain medication, you should let your dentist know of any drug allergies, ask about the risk in taking the medication, and how to take the medication. Adverse effects from medication can result in injuries or death, so it is important to let your dentist know of any allergies to pain medications.
Before going forward with a dental surgical procedure, be sure to consult with your dentist about your health history, concerns about pain, and any questions about medications. This will lead to a faster recovery after your dental visit. Be sure to contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 for your appointment.
