Dental surgery can result in discomfort and pain, but by using the following four methods at home, you can safely take pain medication and have a much easier recovery.
4 safety tips for using pain medication after dental surgery
1. Take your prescribed medication exactly as the doctor directed.
People generally experience the most pain during the first 24 to 48 hours after minor oral surgery. However, it is common for the surgical site to still feel sore up to five days later.Your dentist or oral surgeon will probably prescribe some pain medication to help you recover from dental surgery. Do not take more than the stated dose and do not mix your prescribed medications with non-prescription painkillers, unless your dentist or oral surgeon tells you that it is safe to do so. Following the directions given to you by your doctor is the best way to ensure the effectiveness of your medication.
2. Don't drink.
Alcohol and pain medications are not a good combination. Alcohol can affect the way that the body breaks down some pain medications, and can also increase the risks associated with medications. Drinking alcohol can also slow down the rate at which the surgical site heals.
3. Only drive if your dentist says you can.
When taking narcotic pain medications, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. For example, codeine is a narcotic medication that can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Your dentist will let you know whether your prescribed pain medication is likely to have these effects. If in doubt, ask your dentist, oral surgeon or pharmacist whether it is safe for you to drive while taking your medication.
4. Treat the swelling as well as the pain.
As well as taking pills, there are other things you can do to make yourself more comfortable following dental surgery. According to the Canadian Dental Association, the best way to handle pain and swelling on the first day following dental surgery is to make a cold compress by wrapping ice cubes or frozen peas in a towel and then applying the compress to the swollen area. On the second day, you should switch to using a warm compress, such as a hot water bottle also wrapped in a towel. The heat will stimulate blood flow to the surgical site and help reduce the swelling.
Taking these simple self-care steps, in addition to using pain medication, can greatly help reduce your discomfort after dental surgery.
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