Assessment of Self-Medication Behaviour in Response to Dental Pain in Two Populations, France

Self-medication appears to be a common practice for dental pain. However, in France, its prevalence and patterns in dentistry have never been studied. The primary objective was to assess the prevalence and self-medication behaviours in two at-risk populations: patients consulting for acute pulpal or periapical pain and patients with dental anxiety requiring treatment under general anaesthesia. The secondary objective was to examine the influence of socio-behavioural factors on these practices.

Between April 2021 and May 2023, the behaviours of two at-risk population regarding self-medication were analysed in a cross-sectional observational study. The first population regrouped patients referred to an endodontic postemergency care unit after visiting the emergency service of a dental hospital. These patients were referred due to acute pulpal or periapical pain (Endodontic Group). The second population regrouped patients referred to a special care unit for dental treatment under general anaesthesia due to dental anxiety (Anxiety Group). Self-medication behaviours of the two at-risk populations were analysed with 5 self-administered questionnaires (self-medication, EPICES, IDAF-4C, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Socio-demographic data). Comparisons between the two population were done using Pearson's chi-square and Student's t tests.

During the study period, 43 patients were included in the endodontic group and 66 in the anxiety group. Socio-demographic and behavioural data differed between the two groups. However, self-medication prevalence was similar (51.2% in the Endodontic Group vs 45.5% in the Anxiety Group), as were self-medication behaviours (types and number of substances used, methods of acquisition, knowledge). No socio-demographic or behavioural factors explained these attitudes.

Self-medication in dentistry is often overlooked or poorly managed. Preventive measures and patient education on the proper use of medication are essential.

Standardized cooperation protocols should be developed involving dentists and community pharmacists to optimize the management of patients suffering from dental pain.