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The goal after any procedure is to stay comfortable and ahead of pain, not to wait until it starts. In this video, Dr. Currie explains exactly how to alternate ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) for the best results.

By following this schedule, most patients never need prescription pain medication — and their recovery is smoother, safer, and easier to manage.
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Overview

Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind when managing pain after your procedure.
For a more detailed explanation, please watch the full video above. **Only follow these instructions if you are allowed to take ibuprofen (in the NSAID family along with Aspirin, Naproxen, etc) and Tylenol (acetaminophen). Contact the office for modified instructions if you are allergic to either type of medication, if you suffer from stomach ulcers, kidney issues, or liver disease. 

• Dosage schedule: Take 600 mg of ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) every 6 hours, alternating with Tylenol (acetaminophen) every 3 hours.
  
• Stronger together: Advil + Tylenol work better as a team — they provide more relief than either one alone.
  
• Nighttime routine: Keep both medicines and a glass of water by your bed. If you wake up, you can take both together instead of missing a dose. It’s all about keeping it in your system.
• Starting point: If you were sedated, begin with Tylenol first, then alternate every three hours with ibuprofen.
  
• Breakthrough pain: If pain persists, replace your Tylenol dose with your prescribed pain medication — never take both at once.
  
• Avoid alcohol: Tylenol and alcohol are a dangerous mix; even small amounts can harm your liver.
  
• Health conditions:
  
  
  • Avoid ibuprofen if you have kidney problems, ulcers, or stomach issues.
    
  • Avoid Tylenol if you have liver disease or drink alcohol regularly.
    
• Stay ahead of pain: Start your medication routine as soon as you get home — don’t wait for pain to begin.
• ‍Most patients never need narcotics: This rotation keeps you comfortable and helps avoid stronger pain medicine altogether. If you end up taking narcotics such as Hydrocodone, it should replace the Tylenol in the back and forth rotation. Warning: Narcotics can be very dangerous if mixed with alcohol; please do not drink any alcohol while taking narcotics.
  
  

📞 Need Help?

If you have questions or concerns at any point during recovery, please reach out to Atlanta Dental Spa at 404-816-2230 or visit atlantadentalspa.com.
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