Investigation of Patients' Use of Non-Pharmacological Substances in Dental Pain Management

Authors

• Neslihan Yılmaz Çırakoğlu, Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Karabük University, Karabük 78050, TürkiyeFollow
• Özgenur Kaya, Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Karabük University, Karabük 78050, TürkiyeFollow

Abstract

Background: Dental pain is a complex condition influenced by biological, biochemical, environmental, and psychological factors. Before seeking professional care, many patients attempt to relieve dental pain using self-administered, non-medical agents. This study aimed to investigate patients’ use of non-pharmacological substances in dental pain management and to identify factors influencing these practices.

Methods: The questionnaire consisted of four sections addressing demographic characteristics, oral hygiene habits, pain characteristics, and pain-relief agents. Categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square test. Categorical data are presented as frequencies and percentages, while continuous data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation and median values.

Results: A total of 1,007 valid responses were analyzed. Significant associations were observed between gender and tooth-brushing frequency, and between educational level and tooth-brushing frequency. The presence of systemic disease was significantly associated with analgesic use. Additionally, psychiatric disorders were significantly associated with the use of non-medical substances (p = 0.036).

Conclusions: Significant relationships were identified among several variables. The most notable finding was the markedly higher prevalence of non-pharmacological substance use among individuals with psychiatric disorders.

References

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Recommended Citation

Çırakoğlu, N. Y., & Kaya, Ö. Investigation of Patients' Use of Non-Pharmacological Substances in Dental Pain Management. J Dent Indones. 2026;33(2): 120-127