DRUG THERAPY IN DENTISTRY

Abstract

Medications play a central role in dental practice, being essential for pain management, infection treatment and post-surgical recovery. Integrating medication therapy into clinical treatments improves results and promotes greater comfort for patients. One of the main challenges in dentistry is drug interactions, which occur when substances ingested by the patient – ​​such as medications (antibiotics, antidepressants), natural products (medicinal plants) or substances used daily (alcohol, tobacco) – affect the effectiveness of drugs used in the office. This interaction can enhance, modify or even nullify the effects of anesthetics with vasoconstrictors and other medications, increasing the risks during dental treatment. With the increase in the use of medications by the population, dentists are faced with the need for a detailed medical history to identify the patient's history and prevent complications. This care is even more critical in patients with comorbidities, who use several drugs, increasing the risk of dangerous interactions. Furthermore, the professional must be prepared to deal with emergency situations caused by these interactions. Medication prescriptions must be carried out responsibly, considering the desired effects, possible adverse effects, contraindications and drug interactions. To this end, the dentist must have extensive knowledge of pharmacology and understand the particularities of each patient. The adoption of safe and evidence-based practices contributes to the effectiveness of treatment and patient safety. Therefore, drug therapy is not just an auxiliary tool, but an essential pillar for the success of clinical dental practices.