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Analgesics or Pain Relievers

  1. What is an analgesic?
  2. What part do analgesics play in reducing dental pain?
  3. What is the main cause of severe dental pain?
  4. What is an anti-inflammatory drug?
  5. Which are the anti-inflammatory drugs?
  6. What are the most commonly used analgesics?
  7. Is it safe to take analgesics without dental or medical advice?

 
1. What is an analgesic?

  • An analgesic is a pain relieving substance. It does not cure the problem that causes the pain, but reduces the feeling of the pain.

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2. What part do analgesics play in reducing dental pain?

  • Analgesics are used as short term measures to ease pain before, during and after dental treatment.
  • Some dental procedures can result in pain and discomfort after treatment. Pain relievers play a part in making the treatment more comfortable.
  • An analgesic taken before a dental appointment can relieve minor discomfort or stress.

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3. What is the main cause of severe dental pain?

  • Severe dental pain is usually caused by the inflammation of the nerves and blood vessels in and around the tooth.
  • This is usually associated with tooth decay.

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4. What is an anti-inflammatory drug?

  • Inflammation is the cause of most dental pain.
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs are effective against such pain.

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5. Which are the anti-inflammatory drugs?

  • Aspirin and Ibuprofin are anti-inflammatory in their action.

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6. What are the most commonly used analgesics?

  • Acetaminophen, also known as Paracetamol or Tylenol
  • Aspirin
  • Codeine
  • Ibuprofin
  • Acetaminophen or Paracetamol
    • It reduces pain and fevers.
    • It has no blood-thinning side effects.
    • It does not cause gastric irritation.
    • Children from two months of age can be given a liquid preparation.
    • There is an appropriate dose for all age groups.
  • Aspirin
    • It reduces fevers and pain.
    • It has anti-inflammatory properties.
    • It acts as a blood-thinner.
    • It can cause stomach irritation.
    • It is not recommended for children under twelve years.
    • People with stomach ulcers, or on blood thinning drugs, should not take aspirin for pain.
  • Codeine
    • Codeine is a very powerful pain reliever.
    • Strong doses can control very severe pain.
    • It is often combined with other analgesics to boost their effectiveness for pain relief.
    • It is constipating.
  • Ibuprofen
    • Ibuprofen is a pain reliever and an anti-inflammatory drug.
    • It is available for all age groups.
    • It is not constipating, and there are no adverse gastric side effects.

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7. Is it safe to take analgesics without medical or dental advice?

  • Many analgesic preparations can be bought without a prescription.
  • Caution is nevertheless necessary.
  • Several analgesics are very often combined in a single tablet or capsule.
    • You may not be aware of the ingredients of your pain-relieving tablets or capsules.
    • It is therefore most important that they should only be taken with the knowledge and approval of your doctor or dentist.
    • This is particularly true if you are taking other medications as well.

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