CDA Essentials 2019 • Volume 6 • Issue 6

Patient Resource forManagingPainof THIRDMOLAR EXTRACTION A new patient resource for managing pain a fter thirdmolar extraction reinforces themessage that opioids should not be the first choice of analgesic and answers questions patients might have after being prescribed opioids. The guide is published by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) C anada, in collaboration with the Canadian Association of Hospital Dentists (CAHD) and Choosing Wisely Canada, with funding support from th e Canadian Patient Safety Institute. It is endorsed by a number of health organizations, including the Canadian Dental Association. Choosing Wisely Canada is a national campaign to help clinicians and patients engage in conversations about unnecessary tests and treatments (see p. 18). The guide informs patients about best practices in pain management after third molar extraction, including: • Talking to your dentist about a pain control plan that starts with trying acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen or naproxen taken at regular intervals before considering prescribed opioids. • Talking to your dentist if your pain does not improve after 3 days of taking opioids; usually, opioids are required for less than 3 days. • Proper use of opioids, including taking the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time; avoiding driving and using heavy machinery; and being aware of dangerous drug interactions. • Monitoring side effects of opioid use and avoiding substances that increase the risk of side effects. • Talking to your dentist if your pain does not improve as expected. N ews and E vents 17 Issue 6 | 2019 | ismp-canada.org