For many patients preparing for oral surgery—whether it is having wisdom teeth removed, placing a dental implant, or undergoing bone grafting, post-operative pain is often their biggest concern. Historically, managing post-surgical discomfort meant relying on prescription narcotic pain medications.
However, amidst growing societal concerns around opioid addiction and narcotic side effects, modern oral surgery is shifting toward safer, non-addictive pain management.
At River Ridge Oral Surgery, one of the most effective tools used to improve patient comfort is EXPAREL®, a long-acting, non-opioid local anesthetic that transforms the post-operative recovery experience.
What is EXPAREL?
EXPAREL (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension) is a single-dose, non-narcotic numbing medication administered directly into the surgical site by your oral surgeon at the end of your procedure.
While traditional local anesthetics wear off within a few hours after you leave the surgical suite, EXPAREL utilizes advanced liposomal technology. Microscopic spherical structures encapsulate the numbing agent, releasing it slowly into the local tissue over time.
This time-release mechanism provides targeted, continuous pain relief for up to 72 hours after surgery—covering the crucial first two to three days when post-operative discomfort and swelling are typically at their peak.
The Benefits of Opioid-Free Pain Management
Using EXPAREL as part of a post-operative care plan provides significant advantages for patients and their families:
Eliminating the Need for Prescription Narcotics
The primary benefit of EXPAREL is a dramatic reduction—and frequently complete elimination—of the need for prescription opioids following oral surgery. Most patients who receive EXPAREL find that any remaining mild discomfort can be managed easily with routine over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Avoiding Common Narcotic Side Effects
Opioid pain medications often come with unwanted systemic side effects, including heavy sedation, brain fog, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and severe constipation. Because EXPAREL works locally at the surgical site rather than affecting your whole body, patients can recover with a clear head and avoid these gastrointestinal issues.
Protection Against Opioid Dependency
Opioid addiction remains a serious public health concern, and first exposure to narcotics frequently happens after routine surgical or dental procedures—especially among teenagers and young adults having wisdom teeth extracted. Utilizing a non-addictive, non-opioid solution provides peace of mind for parents and patients alike.
Continuous Relief Without Set Timers
Managing multiple prescription pills on strict schedules while groggy from surgery can be confusing and stressful. Because EXPAREL is administered during the procedure while you are still numb or under IV sedation, the pain relief is already working before you wake up, eliminating the worry of missing a dose during early recovery.
What Procedures Can Benefit from EXPAREL?
EXPAREL can be incorporated into a wide variety of oral and maxillofacial surgical plans, including:
- Wisdom Teeth Extraction: Particularly for impacted teeth where tissue disruption is higher.
- Single or Multiple Dental Implant Placement: Helping maintain comfort as bone and gums heal.
- Bone Grafting & Reconstructive Surgery: Providing extended relief for more extensive site preparation.
- Complex Tooth Extractions: Ensuring a smooth transition into home recovery.
A Smoother, Safer Path to Recovery
At River Ridge Oral Surgery, patient safety, comfort, and state-of-the-art innovation go hand in hand. By incorporating EXPAREL into surgical care plans, patients can focus on resting, hydrating, and healing, without the anxiety of post-op pain or the risks of narcotic medications.
If you or a family member are scheduling an upcoming oral surgery consultation, ask your surgeon whether EXPAREL is right for your procedure.
To learn more about surgical comfort options or to schedule an evaluation in Sioux Falls, visit River Ridge Oral Surgery or call our office today.