It’s normal to experience some soreness after certain dental procedures like root canals, extractions, or emergency care. Luckily, we live in a time when pain relief is available at your closest pharmacy, supermarket, or convenient store. But how do you sort through all the brands and choices to know which over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicine is right for you? Below, we’ll dive into 4 commonly recommended ones and help you make the right call.
1. Ibuprofen
It’s a classic painkiller for a reason (or 3): Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation. Because dental procedures can often cause all 3, it’s useful for managing short-term discomfort.
Common brand names include Motrin and Advil. Follow the dosage directions on the package or according to your dentist’s instructions, though most people are good to take 200 to 400 milligrams (usually 1 to 2 pills) every 4 to 6 hours.
Avoid ibuprofen if you have a history of kidney problems, stomach ulcers, or cardiovascular conditions. To avoid an upset stomach, take it with food.
2. Naproxen
Naproxen is another NSAID that can help reduce dental pain and inflammation. The key difference between it and ibuprofen is naproxen generally lasts longer, up to 12 hours, which makes it handy to take at night before bed to stay asleep. It’s widely known by the brand name Aleve.
Naproxen may not be appropriate for people with certain health conditions or those taking medications that increase bleeding risk, so check with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
3. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen, commonly sold under the brand name Tylenol, works by blocking pain signals in the brain, but it lacks the anti-inflammatory effects of ibuprofen and naproxen.
For some people, acetaminophen may be an appropriate alternative when NSAIDs aren’t recommended, like if you have stomach issues or allergies. It shouldn’t be taken by patients with liver disease or who regularly drink alcohol.
4. Benzocaine
Want to be comfortably numb? If you need localized pain relief for ailments like toothaches, canker sores, or gum irritation, reach for the benzocaine. You’ve most likely seen it in the form of a tube of Orajel, though it’s also available in creams and sprays. Apply benzocaine directly to the source of pain and it will numb the area to soothe your discomfort, much like a dentist using Novocain.
Just don’t overdo it, or it could possibly cause irritation or an allergic reaction.
The best pain medication after a dental procedure depends on the treatment you received, your health history, other medications you’re taking, and your individual needs. Most importantly, don’t use OTC pain medication to mask severe or worsening dental symptoms. Contact your dentist if your pain worsens, lasts longer than expected, or occurs with swelling, fever, excessive bleeding, or other concerning symptoms.
About the Author
If you’ve suffered a dental emergency, you need more than OTC pain meds; you need to see Dr. Brandon Jewell, the proud owner of Family Dental Associates of Spring Hill, TN. He’s a graduate of the Meharry Dental School and continues learning through memberships in the American Dental Association, the Tennessee Dental Association, and SPEAR Education. Dr. Jewell and his team are here for you if you need urgent care with same-day treatment for emergency patients. Contact us by phone for quick assistance at (615) 302-1414 or book an appointment online.