It is thought that prescription of opioids by dentists and oral surgeons is potentially leading to future opioid misuse. Dentists are now replacing opioids with ibuprofen (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen, which are just as effective as painkillers.
Key takeaways:
– Opioids are commonly prescribed for pain control after wisdom teeth removal
– A recent study has shown an association between prescription of opioids and future misuse
– Your dentist can advise on any concerns you have about opioid use
“The current epidemic of opioid death and addiction has led to some action. Some state legislatures have put legal limits on prescriptions. The American Dental Association now says that dentists “should consider” NSAID as their first-line pain treatment.”
Read the full story here: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/10/opinion/dentists-opioids-addiction-.html