The efficacy of self-prescribed analgesics in the treatment of toothache

Overuse of non-prescription analgesics by dental clinic patients

“…The pattern of non-prescription analgesic use has been changing as newer products become available. Studies in the 1970s reported that dental clinic patients primarily used aspirin [ 11 ], while studies in the 1980s reported a majority of patients using acetaminophen [ 12 ]. It now appears that ibuprofen is the medication of choice for the majority of patients, although acetaminophen remains a common choice.…”

Alcholism and the dentist

“…The reactions with aspirin and metronidazole are the ones that are of greatest importance to the dentist. Peripherally acting analgesics are the most effective drugs to use for the relief of dental pain (Seymour, 1983). Alcohol and aspirin are both irritant to the gastric mucosa, and potentiate each others effects (Smith et al, 1971).…”