Dental Pharmacology Flashcards

Which drug classification does nitrous oxide (N₂O) fall under in dentistry?

Answer: Anxiolytic/minimal sedation agent

Nitrous oxide combined with oxygen is classified as a minimal sedation/anxiolytic agent in dentistry that reduces anxiety and provides mild analgesia while maintaining consciousness.

Amoxicillin is the antibiotic of choice for endocarditis prophylaxis before dental procedures. What is the standard adult prophylactic dose?

Answer: 2 g 30–60 minutes before

The AHA/ADA recommend a single oral dose of amoxicillin 2 g administered 30–60 minutes before the dental procedure for infective endocarditis prophylaxis.

Which topical anesthetic agent is commonly applied before intraoral injections to reduce needle insertion pain?

Answer: Benzocaine 20%

Benzocaine 20% gel or liquid is the most commonly used topical dental anesthetic applied to mucous membranes before injections to minimize discomfort.

Fluoride varnish applied professionally to teeth helps prevent caries primarily through which mechanism?

Answer: Promoting remineralization and inhibiting demineralization of enamel

Fluoride varnish provides a high-concentration fluoride reservoir that is slowly released, promoting remineralization of early enamel lesions and inhibiting bacterial acid production.

A patient taking warfarin (anticoagulant) requires a tooth extraction. What INR level is generally considered safe to proceed with routine dental extractions?

Answer: INR up to 3.5

Most dental literature supports proceeding with routine extractions when a patient's INR is ≤3.5, as local hemostatic measures are typically sufficient to control bleeding.

Xerostomia (dry mouth) as a side effect of medications increases the patient's risk for which oral condition?

Answer: Rampant dental caries

Saliva provides critical buffering and antibacterial functions; its reduction (xerostomia) dramatically increases the risk of rampant caries due to uncontrolled bacterial acid accumulation.