A guide to pain relief

Here at Buckden Dental Clinic, our team aims to ensure that you are provided with high-quality, efficient and effective treatment to aid recovery following your surgical procedure.

Most people will experience some pain after a surgical procedure. The amount of pain and how it is managed will be different for each individual. This is usually relieved by a combination of simple measures and painkillers (also known as analgesics).

• Relaxation – Pain is often reduced when you are relaxed and distracted. Resting in a comfortable chair, watching television, listening to music, or reading can be helpful.
• Positioning – Rest in a comfortable position with pillows to raise your head.
• Pain relief – Simple analgesic tablets or capsules should be taken regularly as instructed. This means you will keep your pain relief at a constant level and avoid peaks of greater pain.

Many patients find that a combination of different types of analgesics works well. You should, however, ensure that you follow any advice you are given and be aware that some medications already contain more than one type of pain relief. It is advised that you additionally read the patient information leaflets given with all medications.

How to take painkillers (Analgesics)

For clarity, analgesics have been grouped into three groups: type A, type B, and type C (see below). While it is possible to take an analgesic from each of these groups, it is important that not more than one analgesic is taken from the same group (for example, do not take diclofenac if taking ibuprofen).

Type A – Paracetamol

Paracetamol 500mg tablets – Take 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours, and do not take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours. Taking these tablets regularly is more effective than waiting until the pain becomes worse. Side effects from paracetamol are uncommon. Please be aware that lots of over-the-counter pain relief and flu remedies also contain paracetamol, and these should not be taken if taking paracetamol tablets.

Type B – anti-inflammatory analgesics

• Ibuprofen 200mg or 400mg tablets – Take these tablets every 8 hours or as directed on your container. This is an anti-inflammatory pain relief drug. The tablets should be taken with food (meal times are ideal). These tablets may cause stomach irritation. If you experience indigestion, stop taking these tablets. Some patients with asthma cannot tolerate ibuprofen.
• Diclofenac 50mg – Take one tablet every 8 hours. This is an anti-inflammatory pain relief drug. These tablets may cause stomach irritation. If you experience indigestion, stop taking these tablets. Some patients with asthma cannot tolerate diclofenac.

Type C – Opioid analgesics (strong pain relievers)

• Codeine 30mg tablets – These should only be taken if you experience severe pain, or at night when the pain is more noticeable. The instructions for how often to take these will be on your container. Be aware that these can cause drowsiness, dizziness, sickness or constipation. You should not drive or drink alcohol while you are taking codeine. To help avoid constipation, drink plenty of water or fruit juice. If you need to take these regularly, you may need to take a laxative as well. Please discuss this with your GP or pharmacist.
• Tramadol 50mg capsules –These should only be taken when you experience severe pain or at night when the pain is more noticeable. The instructions for how often to take these will be on your container. Be aware that these can cause drowsiness, dizziness and occasional sickness. You should not drive or drink alcohol while taking tramadol.

If the pain persists despite taking analgesics, please give us a call for further advice, or contact your GP.