Yes, an emergency dentist can prescribe painkillers if necessary. When patients visit for severe tooth pain, infections, or dental trauma, the dentist may recommend medication to manage discomfort until long-term treatment is completed. If an infection is present, the dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent it from worsening.
Most emergency dentists prefer non-opioid options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which effectively reduce pain and inflammation. However, if the pain is severe and unresponsive to these solutions, a dentist may prescribe a short course of stronger medication, like codeine. As they must follow stringent regulations when prescribing opioids, an emergency dentist will only prescribe them when absolutely necessary.
Visit the Dentist for a Long-Term Fix
Painkillers alone are not a long-term solution. Even when discomfort is suppressed, the underlying issue—whether a cavity, abscess, or fracture—remains and must be treated for full and sustained relief. After all, an emergency dentist’s goal is to resolve the root cause of pain using safe, appropriate methods.
Patients experiencing severe or persistent pain should always seek prompt emergency care rather than relying on medication alone. Delaying treatment can lead to worsening infections and more extensive and invasive procedures.
An Emergency Dentist for Long-Term Relief in Clearwater, FL
If you’re in Clearwater and looking for an experienced dental team for immediate care or just want to be prepared before an emergency strikes, contact Dr. Earl Santos and the excellent Causeway Dentistry team to schedule an appointment!
