Which Is Better for Dental Pain: Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen?

By Samer Altameemi- RPh (affiliate disclosure below)

Dental pain can be caused by many different problems, including cavities, tooth infections, wisdom teeth, gum inflammation, or recent dental procedures. While several over-the-counter products can help manage discomfort, choosing the right one often depends on what's causing the pain.

One important thing to understand is that many dental conditions involve inflammation. When inflammation is present, medications that reduce both pain and inflammation may provide better relief than those that only treat pain.

Ibuprofen: Often the Preferred Option

Take Ibuprofen (Advil®) 200–400 mg every 6–8 hours with food as needed.

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce both pain and inflammation.

Because inflammation is often responsible for much of the discomfort associated with toothaches, swollen gums, wisdom teeth, and dental procedures, ibuprofen is frequently recommended as a first-line option.

For many dental conditions, reducing inflammation is just as important as relieving pain.

Acetaminophen: A Good Alternative

Take Tylenol® (Acetaminophen) 325–500 mg every 6–8 hours as needed.

Acetaminophen works differently than ibuprofen. It helps relieve pain but does not significantly reduce inflammation.

It may be a good option for people who:

• Cannot take NSAIDs

• Have stomach ulcers

• Have kidney concerns

• Have been advised to avoid ibuprofen

While effective for pain relief, it may not provide the same level of relief when inflammation is a major contributor to the pain.

Advil Dual Action®: Combining Two Pain Relievers

Use Advil Dual Action®, which contains both ibuprofen and acetaminophen in a single tablet. Because these medications work through different mechanisms, combining them may provide stronger pain relief than either medication alone.

One advantage is convenience, but the other advantage is reducing the dose of each one of them would reduce side effects without compromising the pain relieving effect.

Avoid taking additional acetaminophen or ibuprofen-containing products while using Advil Dual Action® unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Other Products That May Help

While pain relievers can help manage symptoms, they do not treat the underlying dental problem.

• Applying Orajel® Toothache Gel may provide temporary numbing relief directly at the painful area.

• Using Cold Compresses on the outside of the cheek may help reduce swelling and discomfort, especially after dental procedures or when facial swelling is present.

• A simple Salt Water Rinse may help soothe irritated gums and support oral hygiene while waiting for dental care.

• Some people also find temporary relief with Clove Oil, which contains a naturally occurring compound called eugenol that has mild numbing properties.

When to See a Dentist

Pain medications can help relieve symptoms, but they do not fix cavities, infections, cracked teeth, or other dental problems.

Seek dental care if:

• Pain lasts more than a few days

• Swelling develops

• Fever occurs

• Pain becomes severe

• You suspect an infection or broken tooth

Found OTC  is your place to find smart over-the-counter solutions for common daily conditions, designed by the pharmacist.

Pharmacist Reviewed: the information in this article was clinically reviewed by Samer Altameemi, a licensed pharmacist. It is intended for educational purposes, not to substitute for a doctor's professional medical advice.

Disclosure: some links in the above article are affiliate links where we might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.