Analgesic Overdose in Patients With Dental Pain. A Cross-Sectional Study in Two Dental Emergency Clinics

Abstract

Dental pain is common, and many patients use analgesics to alleviate the pain. Analgesics are readily accessible, and overdosing may lead to severe complications. This study explores the extent of analgesic overdosing in patients with dental pain. Data were collected from two dental emergency clinics in Copenhagen, Denmark, via questionnaires and interviews with 180 patients. Results showed that 82.8% (n = 149) had taken at least one type of analgesic, and 9% (n = 15) had exceeded the recommended maximum dosage. Of all patients with dental pain, 75.6% (n = 136) used paracetamol, 54.4% (n = 98) ibuprofen, 10% (n = 18) opioids, and 11.1% (n = 20) other types of analgesics. Most frequently, the pain was of pulpal origin (n = 119; 66.1%). Of all analgesics used, most were obtained places where guidance should be available, for example, pharmacies, dental clinics or hospitals (n = 152; 54%). The patients were aware of the recommended maximum daily dosage for paracetamol and ibuprofen in 39% (n = 70) and 41% (n = 73) of the cases, respectively. In conclusion, most patients with dental pain use analgesics to alleviate their pain. A substantial proportion of these patients overdose themselves, potentially putting them at risk of severe systemic complications. This study highlights the need for better patient education and safer pain management strategies.