Which over-the-counter pain reliever (other than tylenol) works best after tooth extraction?

Try naproxen sodium: I recommend Naproxen sodium , aleve, (naproxen) as it will reduce both the pain and the inflammation following the extraction. Plus you can get relief with fewer pills than ibuprofen.

Use NSAIDs: Any of the non-steroidal meds like advil or aleve (naproxen) will work. Depending on your body weight and if you can tolerate the medication then you can adjust the dose accordingly within the prescribed limits.

Ibuprofen hands down: All literature points to Ibuprofen being the most effective anti inflammatory drug of the nsaids for dental extractions. Pain is best controlled when relieved at the site of origin. The narcotics on the other hand are central acting and helpful when peripheral control is insufficient. Do not exceed 3200mg in a day for average weighing adult.

NSAIDs OTC: The usual painkillers of choice are ibuprofen or ketoprofen. If concerned ask your surgeon for more information.