Systemic corticosteroids used in dentistry

Systemic corticosteroids are rarely appropriate for treating oral or dental conditions because they are associated with significant adverse effects—local applications are usually effective (see Topical corticosteroids).

Systemic corticosteroids should only be prescribed by a dental specialist; indications for systemic corticosteroids include:

• severe postoperative swelling
• severe trauma
• periapical nerve sprouting and acute apical periodontitis following removal of acutely inflamed pulp
• inflammatory mucosal disease.

Do not routinely use systemic corticosteroids for the control of postoperative pain and swelling.