Addiction to Opioids and Links to the Dentist

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Addiction to Opioids and Links to the Dentist

Opioids are quite commonly used by as an anaesthetic during the removal of wisdom teeth and other surgical procedures. They can also be prescribed as a painkiller following surgery but there is a small risk of patients becoming addicted to the drugs.

Opioids are addictive drugs and must be monitored and regulated carefully. Many dentists now prefer to use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including:

– Aspirin

– Advil

– Tylenol

Although many people take opioids without a problem there is an element of risk for patients that “have a predisposition to addiction” according to a New York Times article which can be read in full at https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/10/opinion/dentists-opioids-addiction-.html.

Dr. Biju Philip

Dr. Philip (GMC No: 6072826) is a medical doctor with more than 20 years experience, of which 13 years has been in the field of Anaesthetics and Critical Care. He has also undergone extensive training in Dental Sedation and Facial Aesthetics, including Botox and dermal filler treatments, which he now practices in our dental surgery in Exning. He also works as an Anaesthetist at West Suffolk Hospital, Bury St. Edmunds.