People who are recovered from chemical dependency are frequently seen in dental practice. They have special needs, especially in pain management. Understanding chemical dependency and establishing a good pretreatment rapport with the patient will assist the dentist in reducing the need for postoperative analgesics. The practitioner should rely highly on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents as primary analgesics for these patients. Opiate derivatives, tranquilizers, sedatives, cough syrups, and general anesthetics should be avoided.