Flap vs flapless technique for impacted third molar removal: A split mouth prospective randomized control study
Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the post-operative sequelae of removal of impacted third molars in participants treated with conventional flap elevation technique or with a minimally invasive flapless technique.
Materials and Methods: Participants with bilaterally impacted mandibular third molars were included. They were divided into two sites constituting 2 groups. One group was operated by using conventional flap design and elevation and other with flapless technique. Objective clinical parameters were recorded and compared in the post-operative period like mouth opening, swelling, surgical time, and pocket depth. Subjective parameters including pain were also assessed and statistically analyzed.
Results: The sites operated in Group II (Flapless technique) had better results (p?0.05) in terms of pain, swelling, trismus, and pocket depth distal to second molar when compared to Group I (Flap).
Conclusion: The flapless technique gives better surgical results and improved healing process after third molar removal and so should be recommended in routine clinical practice.
Keywords: Third molar, Impacted tooth, Trismus, Periodontal pocket, Edema, Postoperative pain
Materials and Methods: Participants with bilaterally impacted mandibular third molars were included. They were divided into two sites constituting 2 groups. One group was operated by using conventional flap design and elevation and other with flapless technique. Objective clinical parameters were recorded and compared in the post-operative period like mouth opening, swelling, surgical time, and pocket depth. Subjective parameters including pain were also assessed and statistically analyzed.
Results: The sites operated in Group II (Flapless technique) had better results (p?0.05) in terms of pain, swelling, trismus, and pocket depth distal to second molar when compared to Group I (Flap).
Conclusion: The flapless technique gives better surgical results and improved healing process after third molar removal and so should be recommended in routine clinical practice.
Keywords: Third molar, Impacted tooth, Trismus, Periodontal pocket, Edema, Postoperative pain