Considerations for selecting effective analgesic regimens in dental practice.

A variety of analgesic regimens can be developed, based on sound pharmacological principles, in response to the empirical estimate of pain intensity. Including optimal doses of nonopioids to reduce the amount of opioid required is recommended. Furthermore, when pain is anticipated, the nonopioid regimen can be administered on a regular schedule rather than as needed. Preventing pain is better than attempting to reduce it after full intensity has been reached. Careful selection of an effective regimen can prevent breakthrough pain, along with stress and anxiety, which are factors that often require desperate attempts for relief. Options for the dentist to consider are summarized in Table 5 and may be simulated through substitution of other NSAID or opioid equivalents.