What is the recommended ibuprofen dose and schedule following root canal therapy?

• A. 400 mg every 6 hours x 48-72 hours postop
• B. 800 mg every 6-8 hours x 24 hours
• C. 600 mg every 6 hours x 24-48 hours postop
• D. 600 mg once daily for 2 days

Answer: (C)

Pain after root canal therapy is best managed with consistent anti-inflammatory relief during the first 24–48 hours. Ibuprofen works well here because it reduces inflammation as well as pain by limiting prostaglandin synthesis. Keeping the drug at a steady level is more effective than taking it only when pain spikes.

The recommended plan is 600 mg every 6 hours for 24–48 hours after the procedure. This dosing provides about 2400 mg in a day, which is typically sufficient for moderate postoperative pain and swelling while staying within common daily limits. It covers the peak period when pain and inflammation are greatest, without under-treating or unnecessarily extending therapy.

Lower-dose or shorter-duration options tend to under-control pain, while very high single doses or longer durations aren’t needed for routine endodontic pain.