Pharmacology Flashcards

Which class of drugs is primarily used to manage pain in dental procedures?

Answer: Analgesics

Analgesics are a class of drugs specifically designed to relieve pain. In dental procedures, they are commonly prescribed to manage discomfort during and after treatment, ranging from over-the-counter options like NSAIDs to stronger opioid medications for severe pain, ensuring patient comfort.

What is the primary purpose of prescribing antibiotics in a dental setting?

Answer: To prevent or treat infections

Antibiotics are antimicrobial drugs used to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. In dentistry, they are primarily prescribed to treat existing bacterial infections (e.g., abscesses, severe periodontal infections) or to prevent infections in specific high-risk situations, such as before certain invasive procedures in immunocompromised patients.

Which of the following medications is commonly used as a local anesthetic in dental procedures?

Answer: Lidocaine

Lidocaine is one of the most widely used local anesthetics in dentistry. It works by blocking nerve impulses, temporarily numbing the area where it is injected, which allows dental procedures to be performed without the patient experiencing pain, ensuring comfort during treatment.

What is a potential side effect of the antibiotic tetracycline?

Answer: Staining of developing teeth

Tetracycline antibiotics are known to cause permanent discoloration (staining) of developing teeth, particularly when administered to children under 8 years old or to pregnant women. This staining results from the drug binding to calcium in the tooth structure during mineralization, leading to intrinsic discoloration.

Which medication is often prescribed to reduce inflammation in dental conditions?

Answer: Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed in dentistry to reduce both pain and inflammation. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that contribute to pain and inflammation, making it effective for conditions like pericoronitis or post-operative swelling.