Teens & Prescription Opioid Use

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 40 Americans die each day from prescription opioid overdoses. As the opioid crisis continues to grow, so does public awareness, including the understanding that addiction to these drugs often begins with a legitimate prescription.

For many teens, their first exposure to opioids occurs when a dentist prescribes pain medication following wisdom tooth extraction, root canal treatment, or other oral surgery. While these prescriptions are intended to manage short-term pain, early exposure can increase the likelihood of future opioid misuse by up to 33%. Teens may be particularly vulnerable because the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for reasoning and impulse control, is not fully developed until the early to mid-20s.

At Miller Family Dental, your child’s dental care is designed to be effective, comfortable, and, above all, safe. If you have concerns about dental surgery for your teen or are looking for a compassionate and knowledgeable dentist, contact Miller Family Dental to schedule an appointment today. We’re here to answer your questions and help you feel confident in your child’s care.

The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.