Objectives: 

• Describe the pharmacology of opioid and non-opioid analgesics, including mechanisms of action as well as their potential for abuse. 
• Identify the intended role of opioid and non-opioid analgesics in the treatment of acute dental pain. 
• Describe strategies for developing a pain management plan that is individualized for a patient's needs and medical conditions. 
• Explain the impact of the excessive use of opioid analgesics on our communities and considerations for the dental hygienist.

Management of acute dental pain is accomplished through a clinical approach that successfully incorporates opioid and non-opioid analgesics. However, this normally occurs outside the dental office, away from our immediate supervision and we are often faced with the difficult task of effectively managing patient pain while also avoiding adverse outcomes for both our patients and our communities. This program will provide an overview of the use of opioid and non-opioid analgesics and analgesic adjuvants in the effective management of acute dental pain. Using case scenarios, special emphasis will be given to the excessive utilization of opioid analgesics, the impact on our communities, the burgeoning national opioid epidemic, and considerations for the dental hygienist.