The use of corticosteroids and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medication for the management of pain and inflammation after third molar surgery: A review of the literature

Received 21 May 2008; received in revised form 30 September 2008; accepted 10 November 2008. published online 21 January 2009.

The use of medication to relieve pain and inflammation after removal of third molars has been explored thoroughly in the literature. Narcotic analgesics, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and combinations of these all have a role in the postoperative management of pain and swelling within this group of patients. This article addresses the use of NSAIDs and corticosteroids after third molar surgery, along with a review of the literature, which is incorporated to provide practitioners helpful, quick, and reliable information regarding patients undergoing third molar surgery.

a Chief Resident, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nova Southeastern University/Broward General Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

b Private practice, Seattle, Washington

c Dental student, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nova Southeastern University/Broward General Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

d Chairman, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nova Southeastern University/Broward General Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

e Director, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nova Southeastern University/Broward General Medical Center, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Reprint requests: Dr. King Kim, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral and Facial Surgical Center/Baptist Memorial Golden Triangle Hospital, 300 Hospital Drive, Columbus, MS 39705

PII: S1079-2104(08)00846-9

doi:10.1016/j.tripleo.2008.11.005

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