Systemic medications in Endodontics

Endodontic treatment is a procedure which aims to reduce pain and remove infectious agents and is sufficient in the majority of cases. In some cases, dentists may additionally require the help of medications. The most commonly used drugs in endodontic cases can be examined under the headings of analgesics and antibiotics. When analgesics are evaluated, the most frequently used and primarily preferred drug group is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAII). In patients who cannot take such medications, acetaminophen may be preferred or some combinations may be applied. It is recommended that dentists make the right decision in the use of antibiotics and avoid unnecessary antibiotic administration. Antibiotics should be used in cases accompanied by extensive swelling, rapidly spreading infection, lymphadenopathy and systemic findings. Penicillin V and Amoxicillin are the preferred antibiotic types in endodontic practice. In particular, amoxicillin is an antibiotic preferred by dentists due to its broad spectrum, easy absorption, and long-term preservation of blood levels. In this presentation, systemic medications used in endodontic treatment are summarized by giving examples.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this presentation, the participant will

1. Will have information about the most commonly used analgesics in endodontic cases and their mechanisms of action.
2. Will have knowledge about the cases in which antibiotics are administered and which group of antibiotics are preferred in endodontic cases.

3. Will be informed about current trends in drug use in endodontics.