Orofacial emergencies arise from various causes and require an array of therapies for their amelioration and resolution. A commonality in almost all of these emergencies, however, is pain. The oral cavity and surrounding structures are richly endowed with nociceptive neurons. This region is also psychologically important, given its strong association with sensory gratification and physical attractiveness, so clinicians faced with orofacial emergencies also are confronted with apprehensive patients seeking immediate relief. The effective control of pain is often a prerequisite to definitive care and, in cases of protracted discomfort, may be necessary to avoid malnutrition, dehydration, and other medical complications.

The acute management of orofacial pain in conscious patients relies heavily on the administration of local anesthetics and systemic analgesics, often in combination.<sup>13 Dionne R.A., Wirdzek P.R., Fox P.C. , e al. Suppression of postoperative pain by the combination of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, flurbiprofen, and a long-acting local anesthetic, etidocaine J Am Dent Assoc 1984 ;  108 : 598-601

Cliccare qui per andare alla sezione Riferimenti</sup> This article assists clinicians in using these therapeutic agents to the best advantage.