A little tenderness after dental treatment isn’t unusual. Depending on the procedure, you may experience soreness, inflammation, or sensitivity as your mouth begins to heal. Fortunately, over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can often make those first few hours or days more comfortable.
But which medication should you choose? And what if you take medication for high blood pressure or diabetes? Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common options.
Ibuprofen: A Common First Choice
Ibuprofen, an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), is one of the most commonly recommended OTC medications for dental pain. Unlike medications that primarily affect how your brain perceives pain, NSAIDs also reduce inflammation at the source.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, either alone or combined with acetaminophen, as first-line options for managing acute dental pain in adults and adolescents.
Always follow the dosing instructions on the package or the specific instructions provided by your dentist. Taking more than recommended won’t necessarily provide better relief and can increase your risk of side effects.
What About Acetaminophen?
Acetaminophen is another popular OTC pain reliever. It works differently from NSAIDs, which is one reason the two medications may sometimes be used together.
Research reviewed by the ADA indicates that combining an NSAID such as ibuprofen with acetaminophen can provide effective relief for moderate dental pain.
However, acetaminophen requires careful attention to dosing. It is found in many combination medications, including some cold and flu products, so check the active ingredients before taking multiple medications at the same time. Taking too much can cause serious liver damage.
What If You Have High Blood Pressure or Diabetes?
This is where you should pause before reaching for the medicine cabinet. NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, can pose additional concerns for people with certain health conditions. They may affect blood pressure and kidney function, and people with high blood pressure or diabetes should tell their healthcare provider before using ibuprofen.
That doesn’t necessarily mean you can never take an NSAID. Your dentist or physician can help determine which option is appropriate based on your health history and other medications.
It’s especially important to tell your dentist about every prescription medication, OTC medication, and supplement you take. This helps your dental team identify potential interactions and recommend pain relief that is appropriate for you.
Should You Take Aspirin?
Aspirin is also an NSAID, but it isn’t necessarily the best choice for managing dental pain after a procedure. Because aspirin can affect blood clotting, your dentist may recommend avoiding it around certain procedures, particularly when bleeding is a concern.
Rather than choosing a pain reliever based solely on what you already have at home, ask your dental team what they recommend for your specific treatment.
When Should You Call Your Dentist?
OTC medication should help make temporary discomfort more manageable, not mask a problem that needs professional attention. If your pain is severe, continues to worsen, lasts longer than expected, or comes with significant swelling, fever, or other concerning symptoms, contact your dentist.
Your dentist can determine whether your symptoms are part of normal healing or indicate a complication that needs treatment.
A little preparation and the right medication can go a long way toward making your recovery more comfortable.
About the Practice
Dr. Thomas A. Gromling, DDS, provides comprehensive family dentistry in Stephens City, Virginia, with services ranging from preventive and restorative care to cosmetic dentistry, sleep apnea therapy, and emergency dentistry. Dr. Gromling has nearly 40 years of experience and offers same-day emergency appointments when patients are dealing with sudden dental pain or injuries.
For patients experiencing a dental emergency, the practice focuses on prompt evaluation, clear treatment recommendations, and comfortable care to help get their oral health back on track.
Call us at (540) 869-4377 or schedule your appointment online.