Talk Description
Opioids are commonly prescribed by dentists. However, they have limited efficacy for dental pain despite being frequently recommended. This talk will review dental opioid prescribing patterns and choices, the latest evidence to demonstrate the effectiveness of opioids for dental pain, as well as their adverse effects. Suggestions on the appropriate pharmacological management of nociceptive, inflammatory dental pain will be presented. The importance of appropriate prescribing of these drugs in the context of the opioid crisis and misuse of prescription drugs will also be highlighted.
Please also see the updated learning objectives:
- Understand the effectiveness of opioids for dental pain, as well as their limitations, risks and adverse effects
- Learn various ways to maximise the use of anti-inflammatories for dental pain
- Recognise our responsibility as practitioners to prescribe opioids appropriately to minimise risks, adverse effects and harm from these medicines