Some soreness after oral surgery is completely normal, and over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication can often help you stay comfortable while your mouth heals. But with several options available, you may wonder which medication is best for dental pain.

For many adults and adolescents, current dental guidelines recommend non-opioid medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen as the first line of treatment for acute dental pain. However, the right option depends on your procedure, medical history, and other medications you take. Your oral surgeon should always be your first source for personalized instructions.