Are Topical Meds a Good Alternative to Prescription Pain Killers in Dentistry?
Posted on 8/1/2024 by Parkside Dental
Patient comfort and good treatment results in dentistry depend on efficient pain control. Prescription medications, including opioids, have long been used to control extreme tooth discomfort. Worries over side effects and addiction have driven the hunt for better alternatives, including topical medications.
Advantages of Topical Medications
Applied straight to the pain spot, topical drugs provide focused comfort without compromising the whole body. This concentrated strategy lowers the possibility of systemic adverse effects and lessens the likelihood of addiction, a significant issue related to opioid use.
In dentistry, benzocaine and lidocaine are two often used topical drugs. These medicines numb the gums during treatments such as cavity fillings, root canals, and tooth extractions. They also help control post-operative discomfort from oral ulcers or sores. Their fast start of action and simplicity of application make them a practical choice for patients and dentists.
Appropriate for Particular Patient Groups
Topical drugs are best for those who have contraindications to systemic painkillers. Those with certain medical disorders or those on medications that can interact negatively with oral painkillers can benefit from the targeted action of topical medicines. Children and elderly patients, who may be more sensitive to the adverse effects of systemic treatments, also find great benefits from topical meds.
Restraints of Topical Medications
Although topical drugs are helpful for mild to moderate pain, they cannot always be sufficient for severe pain disorders. In these situations, the best pain management may require both topical and systemic drugs. The appropriate course of action for every situation depends on consulting a dental practitioner.
In dentistry, topical drugs are a good substitute for prescription painkillers since they provide focused pain relief with fewer overall adverse effects. Patients with unique contraindications and those sensitive to the adverse effects of systemic medications significantly benefit from them. Nevertheless, for extreme pain, a mixed strategy can be required.
Visit our office for advice on safer substitutes to prescription painkillers or if you have questions regarding pain management for your dental work. Our first concerns are your comfort and safety. We provide a selection of sensible painkillers catered to your needs. Get in touch today to learn more and start a dental experience free of pain.
About - Murphy TX • Parkside Dental Learn more about Dr. Jason and Jean Larsen's dental practice in Murphy, TX. Meet the team and tour the office! Call Parkside Dental today to schedule! Parkside Dental, 703 E FM 544 Suite 100, Murphy, TX 75094 | (972) 442-7550 | parksidedentaltx.com | 12/24/2024 | Associated Words: dentist Murphy TX |
Patient comfort and good treatment results in dentistry depend on efficient pain control. Prescription medications, including opioids, have long been used to control extreme tooth discomfort. Worries over side effects and addiction have driven the hunt for better alternatives, including topical medications.