Dental procedures like braces or invisalign might hurt your teeth and gums a little while you’re wearing them. We’re all up for less discomfort so sometimes we can’t help but wonder which one’s better, braces or invisalign? If you’re only worried about the pain you don’t need to choose as your dentist may prescribe analgesics such as oxycodone or hydrocodone to help reduce the discomfort. When used as prescribed, these medications can be effective in minimizing pain. However, using these drugs for any other purpose can be dangerous, illegal or even lead to addiction. Here are some of the warning signs of dental painkiller addictions as per dentist in Richmond, NSW.
1.You take more than the prescription
If you are taking these drugs more often or more than the prescribed then this is a bad sign. Do you shrink some doses or stretch the time between the doses so you can take some later? If you are not following your doctor’s prescriptions then there may be a problem.
2.You constantly think about your medication
One of the initial signs of addiction is thinking about your drugs a lot. If you are constantly looking forward to the time to take the next dose then there is a concern. If it’s a fresh dental procedure it makes sense but if it’s taken some time, it’s possible you’ve been addicted to the drugs
3.You are going to several doctors 
Once you start going to other doctors to give you a new prescription something may be wrong. Your aim may be to increase your supplies so that you have enough. If you are explaining to different doctors different things so as to get the drugs there is a problem.
4.You feel offended if someone talks about it
Has your family or friends shown any concern about how you are taking your drugs? If you feel irritated or defensive when they talk to you, there may be a deep problem.
5.You’ve been taking painkillers for long
You probably started using painkillers after a dental procedure. But if you are still using them after the dental pain has gone then it’s time to seek help. You may be using them because of the feeling and not because of pain. Remember, any pain killer is meant to help you get you through a rough patch or bridge the gap. They are not intended to be a way to manage chronic pain.
What you need to do
If you are experiencing any of these sign, you should seek immediate help. The key is being honest with trusted friends, physicians, professionals and yourself. Once you talk to a professional he can refer you to an addiction specialist or a treatment center.