Systemic use of analgesics and anti-inflammatories in dentistry: an integrative review of the literature
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5335/rfo.v30i1.16834Keywords:
odontologia, analgésicos, anti-inflamatóriosAbstract
Introduction: Orofacial pain can be classified into different types, such as postoperative pain and pain associated with inflammation of the pulp and periapical tissues. Analgesics and anti-inflammatories play an essential role in the treatment of orofacial pain, providing symptomatic relief and reducing inflammation. Objective: Identify the most commonly used systemic analgesics and anti-inflammatories in dental practice. Method: This is an integrative review. The articles were selected in January 2025, based on searches in four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase and Web of Science), with publication dates in the last five years. After identifying the studies, 19 studies were included. Literature Review: This review identified nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, and aceclofenac, as the most commonly prescribed medications by dentists, along with antipyretic analgesics, mainly paracetamol. In cases of severe or refractory pain, the most commonly prescribed opioids were codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone, often administered in combination with paracetamol. Conclusion: NSAIDs and paracetamol were widely prescribed due to their efficacy in controlling pain and inflammation in different dental settings, such as the management of postoperative pain in oral and maxillofacial surgery, the treatment of pulpal and endodontic pain, and the control of inflammatory and infectious conditions.
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