Surgery

Question 0

When is grafting of third molar sockets recommended and why?

Answer 0

In patients older than 35 years. Researchers found that when grafting occurs, there is a decrease in CAL, probing depths, vertical defects, and an improvement in bone height (2.4 to 5.0 mm at 12 months).
(Practical Reviews, “Consider Grafting Third Molar Extraction Sockets”)

Question 1

What is a good pre-operative regimen for those who can’t take ibuprofen?

Answer 1

Meloxicam 15mg 1 hour prior to surgery. After surgery: take 1 qd prn. Meloxicam has been shown to greatly reduce the need for rescue pain meds after surgery when compared to placebo or tramadol.

Question 2

What is the best anti-nausea or antiemetic?

Answer 2

Zofran ODT 4mg 1 q8h

Question 3

What is the best NSAID regimen for analgesia?

Answer 3

60% of NSAID is not absorbed. It takes 3-5 days of taking it religiously to get the maximum effect.

Naproxen 500mg bid (Rx)
Ibuprofen 800mg tid (Rx)