Probiotics diminish the post-operatory pain following mandibular third molar extraction: a randomised double-blind...

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Post-operative infections and pain are common complications following third molar surgery.
• Probiotics, containing beneficial bacteria, are being explored for various health benefits, including immune modulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of a specific probiotic mixture in preventing infections after third molar surgery.
• To assess the impact of the probiotic on post-operative pain, swelling, and eating difficulties.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 38 patients undergoing third molar surgery.
• Patients received a daily tablet containing a mixture of Levilactobacillus brevis CECT7480 and Lactoplantibacillus plantarum CECT7481 or a placebo for one week post-surgery.
• Primary outcome: post-operative infection rate. Secondary outcomes: swelling, eating difficulties, and pain (Visual Analogue Scale).

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in infection rates between the probiotic and placebo groups (1 vs. 2 infections).
• The probiotic group reported significantly greater reductions in pain and eating difficulties at 5, 6, and 7 days post-surgery compared to placebo.
• No significant differences in swelling were observed between the groups.

Conclusions:

• The tested probiotic mixture did not demonstrate a significant effect on preventing infections after third molar surgery in this pilot study.
• The probiotic may offer benefits in managing post-operative pain and improving eating ability following third molar extraction.
• Further large-scale studies are warranted to confirm these findings and explore the role of these specific bacterial strains in post-operative care.