Different Types of Painkillers Explained

From ALLtech dental provider Delta Dental of Washington

When you’re in oral pain, finding relief fast is your top priority. But if you are not used to painkillers, you may not know which to choose from. Understanding the different types of painkillers and how they affect you is essential to managing your pain in a healthy way.

IBUPROFEN	NAPROXEN	ACETAMINOPHEN
Targets inflammation Pain reliever Fever reducer	Reduces inflammation Lasts longer than Ibuprofen	Pain reliever Fever reducer Targets heat center of the brain
Good for: Arthritis, swollen gums and jaw pain	Good for: Treating chronic conditions such as TMJ or back pain	Good for: Headaches and acute pain
Can be safe for children under 12: consult your dentist	Not safe for children under 12	Can be safe for children under 12: consult your dentist

OXYCODONE	HYDROCODONE
Taken every 4-6 hours Also available in extended release	Available in extended release Typical dosage is once every 12 hours
Side effects: dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsy	Side effects: fatigue, drowsy, stomach pain, constipation

It is important to understand that while opioids can effectively treat pain, they are highly addictive.

For more information and help managing your dental pain, visit Delta Dental’s Dental Pain without Opioids blog.