Reach for These Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers After Visiting the Dentist

Whether you’ve had a tooth extracted, received a filling, or suffered a dental emergency, your dentist may recommend an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever to help you stay comfortable while you recover. But which option is best? For many adults, ibuprofen and acetaminophen are commonly recommended, although the right choice depends on your health, medications, and the type of dental procedure you’ve had.

Ibuprofen Can Help with Pain and Inflammation

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). In addition to relieving pain, it reduces inflammation, which can be particularly helpful after procedures that cause swelling or tissue irritation.

Common brand names include Advil and Motrin, although many store-brand versions contain the same active ingredient.

However, ibuprofen isn’t appropriate for everyone. People with certain stomach, kidney, bleeding, or cardiovascular conditions, those taking certain medications, and people who have been advised to avoid NSAIDs should check with their healthcare professional before taking it.

Always follow the package directions and your dentist’s recommendations.

Acetaminophen is Another Common Option

Acetaminophen, commonly known by the brand name Tylenol, can reduce pain but doesn’t have the same anti-inflammatory effects as ibuprofen.

It may be an alternative for people who shouldn’t take NSAIDs. However, acetaminophen also has important safety considerations. Taking too much can cause serious liver damage, particularly when combined with other medications that contain acetaminophen.

Check the active ingredients on all medications you’re taking and follow the recommended dosage carefully.

Can You Take Both?

In some situations, dentists recommend using ibuprofen and acetaminophen together or in an alternating schedule because they work differently. Research has found that combining these medications can provide effective dental pain relief for many adults.

However, this doesn’t mean everyone should automatically take both. Your dentist or healthcare professional can tell you whether this approach is appropriate based on your health history and other medications.

Don’t Ignore Severe or Persistent Pain

Pain medication can help manage normal post-treatment discomfort, but it shouldn’t be used to mask symptoms that may indicate a complication. Contact your dentist if your pain is severe, continues to worsen, doesn’t improve as expected, or is accompanied by significant swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, or other concerning symptoms.

Your dentist can determine whether additional treatment is necessary.

OTC pain relievers can be useful tools for managing temporary dental discomfort, but there’s no single medication that’s right for everyone. Your dentist can recommend an appropriate option based on the procedure you received and your medical history. Before taking any OTC pain reliever, read the label carefully, follow dosing instructions, and ask your dentist or healthcare professional if you have questions.

About the Author

Dr. Zack Walker has been serving the dental needs of the Kernersville community since 2018. He graduated with honors from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry and has remained dedicated to taking continuing education courses to expand the range of dental services he’s able to offer. Dr. Walker also maintains memberships in the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, call us at (336) 993-3727 so we can get you in as quickly as possible or you can schedule through our website.