A patient who had a simple single-tooth extraction requests hydrocodone for pain. What is the most appropriate analgesic management?

Combined ibuprofen plus acetaminophen provides analgesia equal to or better than many opioid combinations for acute dental pain, with fewer risks; it is the recommended first-line regimen.Other options: A lifelong opioid prescription is inappropriate and unsafe; opioids (Tylenol #3) are not first-line for routine extraction pain; cold compress alone is insufficient analgesia.Key exam takeaway: First-line acute dental pain control: scheduled ibuprofen + acetaminophen, not opioids.