Corticosteroids in Dentistry

Abstract

Glucocorticosteroids are used extensively in dentistry for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Most of the diseases for which steroids are used are characterized by inflammation, which appears secondary to a hypersensitivity reaction against auto components. Glucocorticoids do not interfere with the primary disease mechanisms but they are used because of their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It seems reasonable to profit from steroids as palliatives in acute phases of the diseases and/or as long-term suppressors of the general host defense. The article deals with the use of corticosteroids in the treatment of the various conditions and diseases affecting oral cavity.

Cortisol in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: A Double-Edged Sword

“…e use of a 10 mg/ mL injection of triamcinolone acetonide and 0.5% lignocaine in equal parts once a week for a total of five weeks has been reported to be effective over a 3-year follow-up period [60]. e systemic administration of steroids is preferred for pain management in patients with postherpetic neuralgia [56]. e use of 40 mg/day of prednisone for 10 days is safe and effective in reducing the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia [3].…”

“…This aims in achieving a faster response without the need of long-term regimen. The combined use of immunosuppressive agents is preferred for obtaining better results [ 56 ].…”

“…The systemic administration of steroids is preferred for pain management in patients with postherpetic neuralgia [ 56 ]. The use of 40 mg/day of prednisone for 10 days is safe and effective in reducing the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia [ 3 ].…”

“…The preferred drug for such patients is prednisolone at a dose of 1–1.5 mg/kg/day. Based on the patient's response to the drug and the severity of the lesion, the dose of prednisolone can be tapered over a period of 21–42 days [ 56 ].…”

Idiopathic Orofacial Granulomatosis – A Diagnostic and Treatment Challenge

“…Indications for intralesional corticosteroid therapy in dermatological lesions by virtue of their anti-inflammatory properties and their atrophogenic side effect can be used advantageously when treating hypertrophic types of lesions, including keloids, lichen simplex chronicus, hypertrophic lupus, and psoriasis [18].…”