Dexamethasone reduces pain and swelling following extraction of third molar teeth

Extraction of multiple third molar teeth can cause significant postoperative pain, swelling and trismus, which may result in delayed hospital discharge. We have examined the effect of a single prophylactic dose of oral dexamethasone 8 mg on these complications, in a randomised double-blind study of 50 adult patients. The number of extractions performed and the operative approach were standardised. Dexamethasone resulted in a significant reduction in pain 4 h postoperatively, and eliminated the need for opioid analgesia in the postoperative period. The incidence of severe swelling was also reduced significantly, but there was no effect on trismus. Postoperative nausea and vomiting were significantly lower in the dexamethasone group. We conclude that the use of prophylactic oral dexamethasone is useful in reducing postoperative analgesia requirements in this group of patients, and may facilitate surgery performed on a day case basis.