Dental pain: OTC pain relievers better than opioids - Downtown Dental Nashville (2024)

FAQs

What is the best over-the-counter pain reliever for dental work? ›

Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and generic) and naproxen (Aleve and generic), work particularly well against dental pain because they block the enzyme that causes your gums to become red and swollen, says Paul A.

Naproxen. Naproxen (Aleve) is the most powerful anti-inflammatory pain reliever available without a prescription. It is especially effective for sprains, sunburns and arthritis and other conditions.

The researchers conclude that the most effective pain relief with the fewest side effects comes from a combination of 400 milligrams of ibuprofen (Advil and other brands) with 1,000 milligrams of acetaminophen (Tylenol). No opioid or opioid-containing medicine or any other combination of drugs was more effective.

Your dentist has provided recommendations for e ective pain control below. Sometimes, opioid pain medications like oxycodone/acetaminophen (Percocet®), hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Vicodin®), and codeine/acetaminophen (Tylenol® #3) are prescribed to help control pain after a dental procedure.

Benzocaine or Lidocaine oral gel: These topical anesthetics can provide temporary relief by numbing the affected area. Apply a small amount directly to the painful tooth and gum area as directed on the packaging. Clove oil: Clove oil has natural numbing properties and has been used for tooth pain relief for many years.

Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is usually recommended as a first line treatment for mild to moderate pain. It might be taken for pain due to a skin injury, headache, or conditions that affect the muscles and bones. Acetaminophen is often prescribed to help manage osteoarthritis and back pain.

Ibuprofen and Paracetamol can be taken together as they work differently but ibuprofen 600mg is usually the best painkiller for toothache.

To reduce pain and aid your recovery, it can be helpful to: use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (always read and follow the manufacturer's dosage instructions) – there's some evidence to suggest that ibuprofen is the best painkiller to take after having wisdom teeth removed.

What is the drug of choice for dental disorders? ›

In cases of severe gum disease (periodontitis), your dentist may recommend antibiotics like amoxicillin or doxycycline. These medications fight bacterial infections and help prevent the loss of gum tissue or bone and other complications.

Most ERs are able to provide temporary pain relief or antibiotics for a toothache. But, many ERs aren't equipped to provide a full scope of dental care. A dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth or dental abscess, needs immediate attention.

To reduce pain and aid your recovery, it can be helpful to: use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (always read and follow the manufacturer's dosage instructions) – there's some evidence to suggest that ibuprofen is the best painkiller to take after having wisdom teeth removed.

An excellent over-the-counter option is to alternate between ibuprofen and acetaminophen (Tylenol^®) every 3–4 hours, which is ideal for managing most types of pain after oral surgery.

Official answer. Yes, it is safe to take ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) together if you need to for extra pain relief, such as for a dental extraction. Taking ibuprofen and acetaminophen together works better to relieve pain than taking ibuprofen and acetaminophen separately.

Ice, rest, dietary restrictions/soft foods, salt water rinses, relaxation, meditation, massage and music can help control your pain.