Is Dentistry Fueling the Opioid Crisis?!

It starts with a routine wisdom tooth extraction.

You’re handed a prescription for opioids—”just in case.” Fast forward a year, and that seemingly harmless prescription has spiraled into something darker.

This isn’t an exaggeration.

Over nine million opioid prescriptions were written by dentists in 2022 alone, and many of them were completely unnecessary. These pills often find their way into homes and communities, sparking addiction risks for young adults—one of the most vulnerable populations.

At e-Alert, we acknowledge that modern medicine has saved countless lives. But when Big Pharma’s relentless pursuit of profits sidelines common sense, the results are catastrophic.

Doctors, often well-intentioned, get caught in this flawed system.

Well, we believe it’s time to rethink pain management, get back to basics, and reserve powerful drugs for true emergencies.

A groundbreaking study from Rutgers School of Dental Medicine reveals a better alternative to opioids for dental pain: a simple combination of ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol).

The double-blind study tracked over 1,800 patients undergoing wisdom tooth extractions. Half received a standard opioid prescription, while the other half took the non-opioid combo.

The results?

• Patients using ibuprofen and acetaminophen reported significantly less pain during the first 48 hours—when pain is most intense.
• The non-opioid group experienced fewer side effects like nausea and dizziness.
• They also reported better sleep quality and fewer disruptions to daily life.

This isn’t just about better pain relief—it’s about breaking a dangerous cycle.

Here’s the kicker: opioids aren’t even the best option for most dental pain. While effective for severe pain, they’re rarely necessary for procedures like wisdom tooth extractions.

Yet, dentists continue to prescribe them—often because it’s “standard practice.” The ripple effects are devastating:

• Addiction Risks: Young adults receiving their first opioid prescription after dental surgery are more likely to misuse opioids later.
• Community Impact: Unused pills often end up in medicine cabinets, where they’re easily abused.

Lead author Dr. Cecile Feldman says it best: “There is no reason to prescribe opioids unless medical conditions prevent the use of safer alternatives.”

The science is clear: targeting pain through multiple mechanisms works better. The combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen tackles both inflammation and pain signaling, offering more comprehensive relief than opioids.

Now, while we wouldn’t encourage regularly taking these OTC drugs—in this instance, their short-term use is safer than opioids.

And let’s not forget the added benefits: no risk of addiction, fewer side effects, and better quality of life during recovery.

Here’s the takeaway: unless absolutely necessary, opt for over-the-counter solutions.

At e-Alert, we advocate for common-sense health solutions rooted in nature and science. Pain management doesn’t have to mean turning to Big Pharma. Here are simple, natural alternatives:

• Anti-Inflammatory Herbs: Turmeric and ginger can help reduce swelling and pain.
• Cold Therapy: Applying ice packs can minimize inflammation.
• Mind-Body Techniques: Practices like meditation and deep breathing can help manage pain perception.

We’re not against modern medicine—but it should be a last resort, not a first response.

Dentists play a critical role in reshaping pain management practices. By embracing safer, evidence-backed methods, we can prevent countless cases of addiction and save lives.

For now, the next time you or a loved one faces dental surgery, ask your dentist:
“Do I really need opioids for this?”

Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most powerful.

To simple solutions,

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

P.S. Dangerous opioids routinely given to IBD sufferers? Click here to learn more.

Sources:

Staff, S. (2025, January 17). 9 million unnecessary prescriptions: How dentists may be fueling America’s opioid crisis. Study Finds. https://studyfinds.org/dental-pain-opioid-alternatives/