The effectiveness of valdecoxib on post-endodontic pain [electronic resource] /

by Ford, Lora Beth

The Effectiveness of Valdecoxib on Post-Endodontic Pain Lora Beth Ford, DDS Pain is often associated with teeth that need endodontic therapy. This pain results from inflammation. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs are useful in managing acute post-operative dental pain. NSAIDS specific for only blocking the COX-2 enzyme cause less stomach irritation and bleeding. The purpose of this clinical study was to determine if pre-operative administration of valdecoxib would significantly reduce postendodontic pain, when compared to ibuprofen. Sixteen patients were evaluated. The patients consented to a random, one-time, pre-operative oral administration of either 600 mg ibuprofen or 20 mg valdecoxib. Each patient rated their pain on a visual analog scale at initial, immediately after, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after initiation of endodontic therapy. Statistical analysis with a two factor ANOVA showed there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between valdecoxib and ibuprofen at controlling post-endodontic pain over time. In conclusion, valdecoxib and ibuprofen appear to have equal efficacy at controlling post-endodontic pain when administered pre-operatively.