How do NSAIDs reduce pain in dental care?

• A. By blocking dopamine receptors
• B. By inhibiting COX enzymes, lowering prostaglandin synthesis
• C. By blocking sodium channels
• D. By increasing GABA activity

Answer: (B)

NSAIDs relieve dental pain by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes, which decreases prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins, especially PGE2, amplify inflammation and make nerve endings more responsive to painful stimuli in dental tissues. By lowering their production, the inflammatory response is reduced and the pain signal from the tooth and surrounding tissues is dampened. In dental care this helps with discomfort from pulpitis, after procedures, and other inflammatory toothaches. The other mechanisms listed do not explain NSAID analgesia—those actions are associated with different drug classes and not how NSAIDs lessen dental pain.