Is it worth applying self-irrigation after third molar extraction? A randomised controlled trial.

Area of Science:

• Oral Surgery
• Periodontology
• Preventive Dentistry

Background:

• Post-extraction socket care is crucial for preventing complications.
• Maintaining socket hygiene can mitigate issues like halitosis and inflammation.
• Limited research exists on the efficacy of simple self-irrigation techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of self-irrigation for mandibular third molar extraction sockets.
• To assess the impact of self-irrigation on complications, oral hygiene, and quality of life.
• To determine the optimal frequency for socket irrigation.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled clinical trial involving 155 patients undergoing mandibular third molar extraction.
• The intervention group performed self-irrigation with tap water using a syringe, starting seven days post-extraction.
• Outcomes measured included complication incidence, mouth opening, halitosis, plaque/gingival index, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL).

Main Results:

• The self-irrigation group exhibited a lower incidence of complications compared to the control group.
• Significant reductions in halitosis, plaque, and gingival scores were observed in the irrigation group (p < 0.0001).
• Increased irrigation frequency correlated with improved oral hygiene and OHRQoL (p ≤ 0.016).

Conclusions:

• Self-irrigation of extraction sockets using a syringe is an effective method for maintaining socket cleanliness.
• This technique demonstrably reduces halitosis, improves plaque and gingival indices, and enhances OHRQoL.
• Simple self-irrigation is a valuable adjunct to standard post-extraction care.