Postoperative pain (POP) is a common outcome following root canal treatment (RCT). An accurate understanding of POP after RCT allows clinicians to predict and effectively manage POP through the prescription of analgesics. In this article, we review the common causes of POP and discuss the various available pharmacologic agents commonly prescribed to effectively manage it. We discuss nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, opioids, and combination therapies with a specific emphasis on the pharmacology, indications, adverse drug reactions, and proper dosing of each agent. In addition, we look at geriatric and pregnant patients and discuss the unique physiology and associated changes in both pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics so as to properly and safely manage POP in these special populations.
Cite this article as: Gasner N, Ouanounou A. Analgesics and pain management following root canal therapy. Essent Dent. 1(1):1-11.