Which of the following is an NSAID commonly used in dentistry?

• A. Ibuprofen
• B. Acetaminophen
• C. Morphine
• D. Acetylsalicylic acid

Answer: (A)

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes, which lowers prostaglandin production in inflamed dental tissues. This makes them particularly effective for dental pain where inflammation is involved, such as after procedures or with pulpitis. Ibuprofen is a widely used NSAID in dentistry because it provides strong analgesia with anti-inflammatory benefits and has a favorable safety profile for most patients, making it a common first-line choice. Acetaminophen, while useful for pain, lacks meaningful anti-inflammatory action, so it is not an NSAID. Morphine is an opioid analgesic and does not reduce inflammation; it is reserved for more severe pain and carries risks of sedation and dependence. Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) is an NSAID as well, but its antiplatelet effects increase bleeding risk and GI side effects, so it is less favored for routine dental pain compared with ibuprofen.