Toothache / Ibuprofen

[Daisee68 2,493]

​Ok I know, I know, no ibuprofen post surgery. But I had 2 cavities filled today and my jaw hurts and Tylenol isn't helping. When I was in my pre-op "class", the speaker mentioned never to take anti-inflammatories but if you absolutely had to, make sure to take a PPI with it. Well I am taking PPI still - twice per day - so do you suppose it would be ok to take 2 ibuprofen just this one time? Surely 2 wouldn't cause an ulcer if only used this once and used with the PPI. Thoughts?

[Inner Surfer Girl 12,015]

Why not call your PCP or surgeon for their advice. I was told absolutely no NSAIDs.

[Daisee68 2,493]

I just didn't want to call tonight because it wasn't an emergency.

[toasty 371]

Sorry, I'm not sure what to say. We were told no NSAIDs. If you are asking our opinion, unless someone here is a doctor the opinions will be just that, opinions. If you don't think it is a problem just this once, then do what you think best. All I can say is what you already know, no NSAIDs at all, ever.

If your doctor tells you otherwise, then absolutely listen to them, not us.

Sorry that's not more helpful.

[esskay77 785]

Can you buy some Orajel and rub it on your gums? It numbs the pain. I wouldn't do any NSAID's without dr permission.

[aelovelady 243]

I would ask for a prescription pain reliever before taking an NSAID.

[rnwrny 15]

I had a horrible headache over the weekend. Horrible. Tylenol alone did nothing so I took 2 ibuprofen. Probably the dr wouldn't like it, but I think one time is ok.

[toasty 371]

@@rnwrny The problem with that is what do you do the next time you get a horrible headache? Or cavities filled for that matter. Take ibuprofen again? Taking ibuprofen, or any NSAID, is a slippery slope for us. Gotta find out from your Dr. what to do when that happens rather than self-medicate with NSAIDs.

[Dar200 285]

I would tend to think of it as an emergency if you are considering taking NSAIDs against medical advice.

[Dar200 285]

I get horrible pain from fillings. Try a cold compress against that part of your face. It's all inflamed so it hurts like hell. Cool or cold compress works for me.

[Daisee68 2,493]

​Great suggestions guys! Why didn't I think of Oragel or cold compress?! You will be happy to know that I did not take it. I took Tylenol and went to bed. Jaws are still sore today but not as bad as yesterday. Think I will try the Oragel and the cold compress after dinner.

Thanks everyone! I have an appt with my PCP tomorrow and may ask what solutions there might be other than NSAIDs for that next headache or toothache - preferably non-narcotic.

[TMG1980TMG 136]

My surgeon said I could 200-400 once in a while for headache. No prolonged use- if more than a day at a time kind of thing- I would talk to your surgeon. Everyone is different.