Australian dental journal
-
Australian dental journal · Dec 2005
ReviewA concise review of the basic biology and pharmacology of local analgesia.
Local analgesics are the most commonly used group drugs in dental practice. However, due to their frequent use and high margin of safety, often dental practitioners neglect to properly understand the biology and pharmacology of these drugs. ⋯ Specific details and properties of some currently available solutions are also outlined. A greater understanding of the biology and pharmacology of local anaesthetics will ultimately lead to safer and more effective use in everyday clinical practice.
-
Pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek dental treatment. It may be due to many different diseases/conditions or it may occur after treatment. Dentists must be able to diagnose the source of pain and have strategies for its management. ⋯ The opioids are powerful analgesics but have significant side effects and therefore they should be reserved for severe pain only. The most commonly-used opioid is codeine, usually in combination with paracetamol. Corticosteroids can also be used for managing inflammation but their use in dentistry is limited to a few very specific situations.