Oral and dental pain often drives patients to self-medicate with over-the-counter analgesics,
bypassing professional consultation. While such practices may offer short-term relief, they carry
significant risks—including gastrointestinal damage, kidney impairment, and the potential for
drug dependence. Despite growing literature on irrational medication use, there is limited research
exploring this behavior specifically within the context of dental pain. Furthermore, little is known
about how well dental patients understand the medications they use—how they work, their side
effects, and which drugs carry addictive potential. The present study aims to examine the
knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to analgesic use for dental pain among patients
attending dental clinics in northern Jordan. By revealing knowledge gaps and correcting
misconceptions, this study aims to enhance public health initiatives and improve the safety and
rationality of pain management in dental care.