PAIN CONTROL IN CONSERVATIVE DENTISTRY AND ENDODONTICS

Abstract

The ability to recognize and interpret pain is essential for every healthcare provider. There are several potential origins and manifestations of dental discomfort. Getting a proper diagnosis is the first step in dealing with tooth ache. The Visual Analog Scale and other similar rating instruments are used to quantify pain levels in patients. Once a diagnosis has been made, a number of options for treating the resulting pain can be tried, either singly or in combination. None of the pain-relieving treatments will work unless the underlying source of the pain is treated. Both pharmaceutical and nonpharmaceutical approaches can be used to alleviate dental discomfort. People who are afraid of the dentist may not be able to tolerate discomfort as well, thus it is important that they receive behavioral therapy to help them overcome their fears. Premedication, taken before an anesthesia is administered, has also been shown to enhance pain control. Primarily, pain is treated with analgesics including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and a few opioids like morphine. Anesthetics, either topically or by injection, are also often used. Analgesia and conscious sedation are frequently used to help children overcome their dental anxiety. It has been demonstrated that hypnosis, acupuncture, and audio-analgesia can alleviate pain. Research on lasers' efficacy as pain relievers is relatively new. Virtual reality has also been demonstrated to be useful as a distraction technique. In addition to medical interventions, several tried-and-true home therapies exist for pain management. Recognizing the complexity of pain management is so essential.