What Drugs Do They Give You After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

If you’re facing the removal of your wisdom teeth, you may be wondering what drugs you’ll be given to manage the pain. It’s a common question, and one that deserves a thorough answer. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of drugs that are typically administered before and after wisdom teeth removal, including over-the-counter and prescription medications. We’ll also explain the possible side effects and the benefits of each drug. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about the drugs you’ll take after wisdom teeth removal.

What Drugs Are Commonly Administered After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that involves removing an impacted or partially erupted tooth from the mouth. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or conscious sedation. After the procedure, the patient may be prescribed a variety of drugs to help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection. The most common drugs used after wisdom teeth removal include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, antibiotics, and corticosteroids.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most commonly prescribed drugs after wisdom teeth removal. These drugs, such as ibuprofen, reduce inflammation and pain. NSAIDs are typically taken orally, although they can also be administered as a topical cream or gel. Opioids, such as hydrocodone, are also commonly prescribed after wisdom teeth removal. These drugs can provide powerful pain relief, but they also carry the risk of addiction and overdose.

Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed after wisdom teeth removal to prevent or treat infection. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics for this purpose are amoxicillin and clindamycin. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling. Corticosteroids are typically administered as an oral tablet or injection.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most commonly prescribed drugs after wisdom teeth removal. These drugs, such as ibuprofen, reduce inflammation and pain. NSAIDs are typically taken orally, although they can also be administered as a topical cream or gel. Common side effects of NSAIDs include nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Patients should always follow the doctor’s instructions when taking these medications.

Opioids

Opioids, such as hydrocodone, are also commonly prescribed after wisdom teeth removal. These drugs can provide powerful pain relief, but they also carry the risk of addiction and overdose. Patients should only take opioids as prescribed by a doctor and should not take them for longer than necessary. Common side effects of opioids include constipation, drowsiness, and dizziness.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed after wisdom teeth removal to prevent or treat infection. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics for this purpose are amoxicillin and clindamycin. These drugs can be taken orally or administered intravenously, depending on the severity of the infection. Common side effects of antibiotics include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling. Corticosteroids are typically administered as an oral tablet or injection. Common side effects of corticosteroids include weight gain, increased appetite, and mood changes. Patients should always follow their doctor’s instructions when taking these medications.

How to Use Medications After Wisdom Teeth Removal

When prescribed medications after wisdom teeth removal, it is important to understand how to properly use them. Patients should always take the medications exactly as prescribed by their doctor. It is also important to take medications at the same time each day to ensure that the drug stays in the body at a consistent level. Patients should never double up doses or take more than the prescribed amount.

Taking NSAIDs

Patients should always follow their doctor’s instructions when taking NSAIDs. These medications should be taken with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset. Patients should also drink plenty of water while taking NSAIDs to prevent dehydration. NSAIDs should always be taken as prescribed and should not be taken for longer than necessary.

Taking Opioids

When taking opioids, patients should be aware of the potential for addiction. Opioids should only be taken as prescribed and should not be taken for longer than necessary. Patients should also be aware of the potential for overdose and should never take more than the prescribed amount. It is also important to keep opioids out of the reach of children and pets.

Side Effects of Medications After Wisdom Teeth Removal

When taking medications after wisdom teeth removal, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects. Common side effects of NSAIDs include nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Common side effects of opioids include constipation, drowsiness, and dizziness. Common side effects of antibiotics include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Common side effects of corticosteroids include weight gain, increased appetite, and mood changes.

Serious Side Effects

In some cases, medications after wisdom teeth removal may cause more serious side effects. Patients should contact their doctor immediately if they experience any of these side effects. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Patients should also contact their doctor if they experience any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or redness.

When to Contact a Doctor

Patients should always contact their doctor if they experience any side effects from medications after wisdom teeth removal. Patients should also contact their doctor if they experience any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or redness. Patients should also contact their doctor if they experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Few Frequently Asked Questions

What Anesthetics Are Used?

The anesthetics used during a wisdom tooth removal procedure depend on the patient’s individual needs and the complexity of the procedure. Generally, local anesthesia is used so the patient can remain conscious, but sedation or general anesthesia may be used depending on the difficulty of the extraction. Local anesthetic is usually a combination of a vasoconstrictor to reduce bleeding, and a numbing agent such as lidocaine, bupivacaine, or articaine. For more complicated cases, conscious sedation or general anesthesia may be used. Conscious sedation is usually an intravenous medication such as Versed (midazolam) or Propofol, which is a short-acting drug that helps to relax the patient and reduce their awareness of the procedure. General anesthesia uses a combination of intravenous and inhaled medications that cause a loss of consciousness.

What Pain Medications Are Prescribed?

Most common pain medications prescribed after wisdom tooth removal include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen, and narcotic pain relievers such as codeine, Vicodin, or Percocet. NSAIDs are used to reduce swelling and pain, while narcotics are used to treat more severe pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is sometimes used in combination with a narcotic to reduce the amount of narcotic needed. It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor or dentist when taking these medications.

Are There Any Other Medications Prescribed?

Yes, your doctor or dentist may prescribe additional medications to help with the healing process after wisdom tooth removal. This may include antibiotics to prevent infection, as well as a mouth rinse to help keep the area clean. Your doctor or dentist may also recommend an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce swelling.

What Can I Do to Speed Up Recovery?

To speed up the recovery process after wisdom tooth removal, it is important to follow the instructions of your doctor or dentist. This includes taking any prescribed medications as directed and avoiding activities that may cause further damage to the area. It is also important to keep the area clean, and to eat soft, nutritious foods that do not require a lot of chewing.

What Should I Avoid After Wisdom Tooth Removal?

After wisdom tooth removal it is important to avoid certain activities that may cause further damage to the area or interfere with the healing process. These activities may include smoking, drinking alcohol, and strenuous exercise. It is also important to avoid eating hard, crunchy or chewy foods, such as chips or nuts, that may cause further damage or infection.

When Will I Feel Relief?

Most patients experience relief from the pain and discomfort associated with wisdom tooth removal within a few days of the procedure. However, it is important to follow the instructions of your doctor or dentist and to continue taking any prescribed medications as directed. It may take several weeks for the area to completely heal, and it is important to avoid activities that may cause further damage or infection.

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After wisdom teeth removal, the drugs you will be given will depend on the individual case, the procedure, and the type of anesthesia used. In most cases, your doctor will provide you with a combination of pain relievers, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory medications. It’s important to take these medications as prescribed by your doctor and to follow up with your dentist if any problems arise. Taking good care of your mouth and following proper aftercare instructions will help ensure a successful recovery. For more information about what drugs are given after wisdom teeth removal, consult your dentist or physician.