ADA Releases New Guideline on Managing Acute Dental Pain
The American Dental Association (ADA), in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and the Center for Integrative Global Oral Health at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, has released a new clinical practice guideline for managing acute dental pain in adolescents and adults. The guideline, published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, recommends nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) either alone or in combination with acetaminophen as the first-line treatment for short-term dental pain in individuals aged 12 and older. These recommendations are based on a thorough review of available evidence, highlighting the effectiveness of NSAIDs including ibuprofen and naproxen in managing pain post-tooth extraction or acute dental pain when immediate oral healthcare is not feasible. Additionally, the guideline provides suggestions for prescribing opioid medications in limited circumstances, emphasizing the importance of cautious prescribing practices and patient engagement in decision-making processes. Supported by a grant from the United States Food and Drug Administration, this guideline aims to improve patient outcomes by reducing the risk of opioid addiction, overdose, and diversion. It complements a previous guideline focusing on acute dental pain management in children and underscores the commitment to evidence-based pain management strategies in dentistry. Click here to read more.
