Effect of Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen in Orthodontic Tooth Movement―A Review

Orthodontic force application causes an inflammatory event in the periodontium resulting in bone resorption and subsequent orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). The release of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins E₂ and Interleukin-1β act as potent stimulators of bone resorption. Application of heavy force results in pain and to relieve the same non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are prescribed. These NSAIDs negate the inflammatory reactions by interfering with the synthesis of prostaglandins(PG), thus inhibiting orthodontic tooth movement. The purpose of this mini-review of literature was to highlight the effects of the two commonly used drugs, namely acetaminophen and ibuprofen on their pain relieving ability and effect on OTM. It was concluded that acetaminophen was a potent analgesic that could be used to relieve the discomfort associated with orthodontic treatment as its effect was at the central nervous system level and not at the cell membrane level as also since it inhibited the PG synthesis very slightlyits inhibitory effect on OTM was not a matter of concern. On the other hand, Ibuprofen served as a mild analgesic as also inhibited OTM with its anti-inflammatory effect.