Opioid-prescribing Habits of Practitioner and Educator Members of the American Association of Endodontists: Report of a National Survey

Abstract

Dentists and physicians alike often prescribe opioids for dental pain management. The purpose of this study was to identify the common practices among United States endodontists for prescribing opioids to their patients. A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was developed to query 1000 American Association of Endodontists members from all 7 districts in the United States. The 20-question survey addressed provider demographics, types and frequency of medications prescribed, and clinical scenarios that compelled prescription-writing habits. The anonymous survey was electronically mailed. There was a preference to prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and/or acetaminophen followed by hydrocodone to manage endodontic pain. The majority of respondents limited an opioid prescription to ≤4 days. Different demographics played a role in the response to direct questions if they ever felt or succumbed to pressure toward prescribing opioids. Opioids are the second most prescribed medication to manage endodontic postoperative pain. Practice background was a significant factor in feeling pressure to prescribe an opioid.