Postoperative Oral Corticosteroids to Control Pain and Swelling Following Dentoalveolar, Periodontal, and Implant Surgery: A Systematic Review
Abstract
Focused Clinical Question: In generally healthy patients receiving third molar, periodontal, or dental implant surgery, do postoperative oral corticosteroids effectively limit pain and swelling compared with placebo or alternative medications? Clinical Scenario: In September of 2020, a 23-year-old male with history of traumatic loss of teeth #8 and 9 in a playground accident at age ten presents to the Army Postgraduate Dental School, Fort Gordon, Georgia, in good general and periodontal health, complaining of an unesthetic smile. He reports no systemic conditions, allergies, or medications. Examination reveals a moderate horizontal alveolar ridge deficiency in the maxillary anterior. The dentition is minimally restored, and the patient desires dental implant therapy. After completing a consent process involving verbal and written components, the patient elects alveolar ridge augmentation. The practitioner considers postoperative oral corticosteroids to minimize pain and discomfort but instead administers 8 mg of intravenous dexamethasone immediately prior to the procedure. The patient reports minimal postoperative discomfort and swelling through the first postoperative week. Favorable alveolar ridge dimensions for implant placement were appreciated three months following the procedure.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 03, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1186382
Entities
People
- Jennah C. Wagner
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences