Third molar removal and its impact on quality of life: systematic review and meta-analysis

Comparing oral health-related quality of life and satisfaction: root canal therapy vs. extraction for first permanent molars in children - a case-control study

BACKGROUND

This study addresses a literature gap by examining Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) and children-parental satisfaction concerning the management of compromised first permanent molars (FPMs) through root canal therapy (RCT) versus extraction.

METHODS

Children who extracted or received RCT and their parents were interviewed using a validated questionnaire that includes sociodemographic data, OHIP5-Ar questionnaire and satisfaction question.

RESULTS

There were 305 patients with RCT (197 (37.1%)) or extraction (108 (87.8%)). RCT increased the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of the child's OHRQoL (3.76; P < 0.001) and parent-satisfaction at assessment-time (AOR = 1.82; P = 0.02). Additionally, increase in the duration between treatment and assessment-time elevated the AOR of patient's OHRQoL (AOR = 1.69; P = 0.001). Significantly fewer children reported being uncomfortable with the appearance of their teeth following RCT compared to those who underwent extraction (P < 0.001). Although not statistically significant, patients tended to express greater satisfaction with extraction compared to RCT at the assessment-time (AOR: 0.64; P = 0.081).

CONCLUSION

While the choice between performing RCT or extraction of compromised FPM in children depends on various factors, both can lead to substantial success in improving the child's OHRQoL and satisfaction. Nevertheless, RCT resulted in fewer concerns about dental appearance.

Clinical and Molecular Impact of Advanced Platelet-Rich Fibrin on Pain, Swelling, and Distal Periodontal Status of Mandibular Second Molars After Mandibular Third-Molar Extraction

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the role of A-PRF (advanced platelet-rich fibrin) in the enhancement of wound healing and protecting the periodontal health of mandibular second molars after the extraction of mandibular third molars. Additionally, the study assessed the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of mandibular second molars as markers of inflammation. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five systemically healthy adult patients with bilateral removal of impacted mandibular third molars were included. Each patient received A-PRF in one extraction site, while the contralateral site served as a control. Periodontal parameters of the adjacent second molar, including probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL), were measured in distal-vestibular (DV) and distal-lingual (DL) sites. Pain, swelling, and overall healing were subjectively evaluated. Levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in the GCF were analyzed. Evaluations occurred at baseline and three months post-surgery. Results: A-PRF significantly improved PD (from 4.69 ± 0.61 mm to 3.85 ± 0.34 mm in DV, and from 4.71 ± 0.65 mm to 3.79 ± 0.27 mm in DL, respectively) and CAL (from 2.41 ± 0.25 mm to 1.82 ± 0.21 mm in DV, and from 2.40 ± 0.36 mm to 1.75 ± 0.19 mm in DL, respectively) of the adjacent second molar, compared to control sites, three months post-surgery. Pain and swelling scores were notably lower on the 7th postoperative day in the A-PRF group. A-PRF also reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines in GCF, significantly more than in control sites, at three months post-surgery. Conclusions: A-PRF enhances the periodontal and inflammatory status of adjacent teeth and wound healing after the extraction of mandibular third molars.

Enhancing Lower Third Molar Surgery: Using The Piezoelectric Technique for Superior Postoperative Outcomes and Complication Prevention

Background: The surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars is routine in oral and maxillofacial surgery and common postoperative complications are widely reported in the literature. Therefore, this prospective split-mouth study aims to compare the postoperative sequelae of piezoelectric surgery versus conventional surgery of the lower third molar, focusing on pain and swelling. Methodology: In total, 41 patients were treated under local anesthesia and surgical removal on one side of their mouth was performed using conventional rotary surgery (micromotor) while the other side's was by piezosurgery, with an interval of 15 days from the previous procedure (82 extraction sites); in addition, pain and swelling analyses were conducted. Results: The pain analysis demonstrated a median of one day of pain in patients treated with piezoelectric surgery compared to two days with conventional surgery (p < 0.001). The probability of not feeling pain was greater in sites treated with experimental surgery on the first and second days (p < 0.001). The swelling was worse in places treated with the conventional method, with the most significant difference being the distance between the angle of the mandible and the upper lip vermilion on both days and the more subtle difference between the angle of the mandible and the anterior nasal spine on the seventh day. Conclusions: When a piezosurgical unit is used, according to the literature, is well known that it takes more time to perform the surgical extraction of third molars. Despite that, our results show that it causes less pain postoperatively, with faster improvement and a quicker reduction in swelling compared to conventional surgery.

Mandibular third molar coronectomy in older adults and its effects on oral health-related quality of life

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of coronectomy on postoperative quality of life in older adults.

BACKGROUND

Coronectomy is an alternative to complete surgical removal of a mandibular third molar that lies close to the inferior alveolar nerve.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study included patients >60 years old who had an indication for coronectomy of a mandibular third molar. Patients were asked to complete the Dutch version of the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) daily during the first postoperative week. Postoperative pain, swelling, limited mouth opening, chewing ability and infection were also recorded. Furthermore, the effect of the impaction pattern, state of eruption, presence of preoperative pathology, patient health status according to the American Society of Anaesthesiologists score, gender, smoking on the postoperative OHIP-14 and pain scores were investigated.

RESULTS

Thirty patients (16 males, 14 females) with a mean age of 71.2 (SD 8.3, range 60-91) years were included in the study. OHIP-14 and pain scores were highest on the first postoperative day and gradually declined during the first postoperative week. Patients who underwent coronectomy of a fully impacted mandibular third molar had significantly higher OHIP-14 scores on the first postoperative day than those who underwent coronectomy on a (partially) erupted mandibular third molar. We did not observe any postoperative complications up to 1 year after the surgery.

CONCLUSION

Mandibular third molar coronectomy seems to present a valid treatment option in older adults.

Efficacy of Dexamethasone Injection at Different Sites on Postoperative Sequelae After Extracting Mandibular Impacted Third Molars: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Dexamethasone, an efficacious anti-inflammatory agent, is widely used after tooth extraction. However, its optimal injection site is yet to be investigated.

PURPOSE

We compare the efficacy of dexamethasone injection at different sites on postoperative sequelae after extracting mandibular impacted third molars (MITMs).

STUDY DESIGN, SETTING, AND SAMPLE

A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted. Healthy adults with fully MITMs scheduled for extraction were included. Exclusion criteria were 1) patients with the systemic alteration that prevented the surgical procedure; 2) pregnancy, breastfeeding, and premenstrual period; 3) hypersensitivity to the drug under test; and 4) those who did not return for postoperative follow-up at 1, 3, and 7 days.

EXPOSURE VARIABLE

The subjects were randomized to 3 groups. An online randomization plan generator assigned each subject to a single treatment by randomly permuting blocks. Different sites for postoperative dexamethasone injections included the buccal side of the adjacent second molar and extraction sockets. Dexamethasone injection (4 mg) on the buccal side of the adjacent second molar (group 1), an injection on the buccal side of extraction sockets (group 2), and an injection of physiological saline (0.8 mL) on the buccal side of the adjacent second molar (control).

MAIN OUTCOME VARIABLES

The outcome variables were postoperative facial swelling, limitation of the mouth opening, postoperative pain, and postoperative quality of life evaluation. The pain was assessed using a visual analog scale at 1, 3, and 7 days, postoperatively. The quality of life was recorded throughout the Posse scale at 7 days.

COVARIATES

The covariates are age, sex, length of operation, and type of impacted teeth and surgery.

ANALYSES

The statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance, repeated measures analysis of variance, χ2 test, or Fisher's exact tests with P values < .05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Our study included 58 participants with a mean age of 19.48 ± 3.31 years; group 1 (n = 24), group 2 (n = 20), and control group (n = 14). On day 3 postoperative, the swelling and trismus were significantly less in group 1 than in the other 2 groups (P < .05), and group 1 had an overall postoperative quality of life compared to other groups (P < .05). Unaffected speech function was present in 73.7% of patients in group 1, while 50% of patients in group 2 had affected speech function 3 days after the operation (P < .05). The "unable to open mouth" of the "Eating subscale" and "felt tingling" had statistical significance (P < .05).

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Dexamethasone injections on the buccal side of the adjacent second molar can be a viable option for treating facial swelling and limitation of mouth opening after total MITMs extraction.

Postoperative Outcome After Coronectomy Versus Surgical Removal of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars - Clinical and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

Coronectomy is an alternative procedure for removing mandibular third molars near the inferior alveolar nerve. Limited research exists on the effect of coronectomy on the postoperative quality of life (QoL).

PURPOSE

This study compared postoperative QoL after coronectomy and complete surgical removal of mandibular third molars during the first postoperative week.

STUDY DESIGN, SETTING, AND SAMPLE

This prospective cross-over study was conducted in the Oral and Maxillofacial Department of Amstelland Hospital, Amstelveen, The Netherlands. The study sample consisted of patients with indications for removal of both mandibular third molars, with one at increased risk of nerve injury undergoing coronectomy, while the other molar was extracted. Exclusion criteria were ibuprofen allergy, anticoagulant therapy, systemic disease, local pathology, or failure to complete the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire.

INDEPENDENT VARIABLE

The independent variable was the surgical procedure, categorized as coronectomy or complete mandibular third molar removal. An 8-week period was maintained between procedures.

MAIN OUTCOME VARIABLE

The primary outcome measure was the mean OHIP-14 score during the first postoperative week. Secondary outcome measures were pain, self-perceived discomfort, and self-care behaviors.

COVARIATES

Sex, age, impaction patterns, and treatment order were analyzed as covariates.

ANALYSES

Nonparametric tests, including the Friedman test for within-patient differences and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for repeated measures, were used for non-normally distributed data. Significance was set at 5%, with P value adjustments per Bonferroni correction.

RESULTS

The sample included 55 patients (18 male and 37 female) with a mean age of 24.6 ± 4.7 years. Mean OHIP-14 scores during the first 6 postoperative days were significantly higher after coronectomy compared to after surgical removal (day 1: 24.93 ± 9.82 vs 22.7 ± 9.5; day 6: 11.27 ± 10.36 vs 8.49 ± 10.93) (P < .05). Pain was significantly higher on the second to sixth postoperative days after coronectomy (day 2: 6.02 ± 1.92 vs 5.78 ± 1.73; day 6: 4.11 ± 2.49 vs 3.09 ± 2.41) (P < .05). Patients used more analgesics after coronectomy (day 2: 4.09 ± 2.53 vs 3.27 ± 1.9; day 6: 2.76 ± 2.62 vs 2.13 ± 2.49) (P < .05). We found no differences in outcomes for sex or molar impaction (P > .05).

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Coronectomy significantly impacted postoperative oral health-related QoL compared to complete surgical removal of mandibular third molars.

Comparison of the effects of submucosal hyaluronidase and dexamethasone on postoperative edema, pain, trismus, and infection following impacted third molar surgery

BACKGROUND

Limiting postoperative edema, pain, trismus, and infection is crucial for smooth healing. This prospective, controlled clinical trial investigated and compared the effectiveness of dexamethasone and hyaluronidase in relieving these complications.

METHODS

In groups Ia and IIa, 8 mg of dexamethasone and 150 IU of hyaluronidase were administered following the removal of impacted teeth, respectively. The contralateral sides (groups Ib and IIb) were determined as control groups. Edema, pain, trismus, and infection were clinically evaluated on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 7th postoperative days.

RESULTS

60 patients were enrolled in the study. Hyaluronidase provided significantly more edema relief than dexamethasone on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 7th postoperative days (P = 0.031, 0.002, 0.000, and 0.009, respectively). No statistical difference was found between dexamethasone and hyaluronidase in VAS and rescue analgesic intake amount values for all time points. Hyaluronidase was more effective in reducing trismus than dexamethasone on the 2nd and 3rd postoperative days (P = 0.029, 0.024, respectively). Neither of the agents significantly increased the postoperative infection rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyaluronidase can be selected when postoperative excessive edema and trismus are anticipated. Dexamethasone may be a cost-effective option if postoperative pain control is merely targeted.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was registered in the Clinical Trials Protocol Registration and Results System (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier number: NCT05466604) on 20/07/2022.

Demographic and Radiographic Characteristics Associated with the Occurrence of Impacted Third Molars in Indonesian Patients: A Retrospective Study

An impacted third molar is one of the most common abnormalities of the tooth position, impacting patients and their quality of life. Based on the impact and the invasive removal procedure, this study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of impacted third molars based on their radiographic features as well as their association with demographic characteristics. Outpatient dental records of the oral and maxillofacial surgery department of Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia, from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2019, were sorted, and relevant clinical and demographic data and panoramic radiographic examination results were extracted from these records. All data were then tabulated and analyzed by using SPSS version 29. As many as 3019 impacted third molars were identified. Our findings suggested the association between age to the occurrence of impacted third molars where patients aged between 17 and 29 years old showed high occurrences of impacted third molars. Male patients with impacted third molars are more likely to have multiple impacted third molars, while this risk decreases in females. Radiographic examination showed that the mesioangular position is the most common position for mandibular third molars. The variation in high occurrences of the impacted third molar is associated with several demographic factors.

The Role of Cyanoacrylate after Mandibular Third Molar Surgery: A Single Center Study

BACKGROUND

The management of the surgical wound of partially impacted mandibular third molar surgery has a great impact on recovery as well as on food impact retention. The present study used clinical parameters and health-related quality of life (HRQL) to compare outcomes of cyanoacrylate application versus traditional suture of third molar impaction surgery.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study of subjects scheduled for outpatient third molar surgery. Each participant signed an informed consent agreement. Inclusion criteria were as follows: presence of at least one partially impacted mandibular third molar, confirmed with a preoperative panoramic radiograph. Exclusion criteria were the following: smoking, diagnosed diabetes mellitus. Between June 2020 and September 2023, a total of 78 patients of mean age 31.14 years old (range 21-40 years, standard deviation 9.14), were included in this study-38 patients were male, 40 patients were female. A group of patients received traditional silk suture (G1 = 41 patients), while the second group (G2 = 37 patients) received hemostasis performed with fibrin sponge and, after complete soaking of the sponge, the application of cyanoacrylate gel on the blood clot and suture with one 2/0 stitch in order for recovery for secondary closure. The following parameters were measured: HRQL, average pain (AP), maximum pain (MP), complication score (CS), facial swelling (FS), and erythema.

RESULTS

For HRQL parameters, oral disability was found to be significantly higher in G1 while AP was significantly higher in G2 (p < 0.05). AP was higher in G2 (p = 0.0098), as well as MP (p = 0.001). No differences were found with regards to CS (p = 0.0759). FS and erythema were higher in G1 (p < 0.0001 for facial swelling, and p = 0.0001 for erythema).

CONCLUSIONS

on the basis of this study, the use of cyanoacrylate after mandibular third molar surgery appears to be useful in order to reduce postoperative oral disability, facial swelling, and erythema after tooth extraction, with increased average and medium pain: clinicians may consider its use in selected cases.

Effect of Third Molar Surgery on Sleep Health Parameters of Young Adults: An Observational Study

Background and Objectives: The role of surgical extraction of the third molar in patients' sleep quality remains unclear, although it is one of the most common oral surgical procedures. The aim of this study is to assess the changes in patient-reported sleep health outcomes after third molar surgery and to investigate any associations between sleep parameters and post-extraction pain. Materials and Methods: Young adults without known comorbidities who were in need of mandibular third molar surgical extraction were included. All participants completed a sleep diary, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) questionnaires, which were used to assess sleep habits, daytime sleepiness, sleep quality and insomnia severity one week before and after extraction. In addition, a visual analog scale was completed postoperatively to assess the perception of pain. Results: Out of 75 patients who completed the study protocol, 32 (42.7%) were males and 43 (57.3%) were females, with a mean age of 24.01 (±3.43) years. Postoperatively, statistically significant higher scores were observed for PSQI [4.85 (±2.32) before vs. 5.39 (±2.75) after, p = 0.041], AIS [5.56 (±3.23) before vs. 6.91 (±4.06) after, p < 0.001] and average weekly number of nocturnal awakenings [2.01 (±3.72) before vs. 4.19 (±5.20) after, p < 0.001] but not for ESS, average weekly sleep duration and average weekly sleep onset latency. Pain perception was increased in patients who slept worse on almost all seven postoperative days, although this did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: Third molar surgery impacts sleep quality and insomnia severity in the first week after extraction, while there is no effect on daytime sleepiness. The worsening of subjective sleep symptoms after extraction may be associated with an increased perception of pain.

The influence of electrical high-speed rotation on mandibular third molar surgeries: a prospective, randomized, split-mouth clinical and radiographic study

The aim of this split-mouth randomized clinical trial was to evaluate the clinical outcomes (operative time, edema, trismus, and pain), the immediate histological effects, the alveolar repair (2 and 4 months), and the quality of life after the extraction of impacted third molars using high-speed pneumatic and electrical rotation. Sixteen patients underwent extraction of the two mandibular third molars with a minimum interval of 15 days. On one side of the participant's mouth, high-speed pneumatic rotation was used (Control Group-CG) while for the other side, high-speed electrical rotation was used (Study Group-SG). Statistical analysis included ANOVA repeated measures and Pearson correlations. SG group showed: shorter operative time (p = 0.019), less pain (p = 0.034), swelling (p < 0.001) and trismus (p = 0.025) on the 1st postoperative day; less pain (p = 0.034) and trismus (p = 0.010) on the 3rd postoperative day; less trismus (p = 0.032) on the 7th postoperative day; and better quality of life (p = 0.007). No differences were observed for peripheral bone damage or bone density of alveolar repair at 2 and 4 months between groups. Electric high-speed rotation provided better postoperative clinical parameters of pain, edema and trismus when compared with pneumatic high-speed rotation for mandibular third molar surgery.Trial registration: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials registration number RBR-4xyqhqm ( https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-4xyqhqm ).

Complementary and alternative therapies for managing postoperative pain after lower third molar surgery: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of complementary and alternative treatments on postoperative pain following lower third molar surgeries.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of Electronic databases (Embase, MEDLINE via PubMed, and Cochrane Library) and grey literature was conducted up until May 2022. Randomized clinical trials investigating the effect of acupuncture, ozone therapy, laser (LLLT), drainage tube, kinesio-taping, ice therapy, and compressions on pain after LTM surgeries were included. The estimated mean differences (MD) for alternative therapies were pooled using the frequentist approach to random-model network meta-analysis NMA.

RESULTS

Eighty-two papers were included in the qualitative analysis; 33 of them were included in the quantitative analyzes. NMA revealed that drainage tube and kinesio-taping were superior in controlling pain 24-hours postoperatively than no-treatment. At 48-hours follow-up, kinesio-taping and LLLT more effective than placebo and drainage tube; and kinesio-taping and LLLT were superior to no treatment. At 72 h postoperatively, ozone therapy was superior to placebo; and drainage tube, kinesio-taping, and LLLT were better than no treatment. At 7-days follow-up, ozone and LLLT were superior to placebo; and LLLT and kinesio-taping were superior to no treatment. The SUCRA-ranking placed drainage tube as top-ranking intervention at 48-hours (98.2%) and 72-hours (96%) follow-ups, and ozone (83.5%) at 7-days follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The study findings suggest that these alternative and complementary therapies may be useful in reducing postoperative pain after LTM surgeries, and may offer advantages when combined to traditional pain management methods.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Non-pharmacological therapies are gaining popularity among healthcare professionals and patients. This study found that some of these therapies, specifically kinesio-taping and drainage tube were effective in controlling postoperative pain after third molar surgeries. These findings have important implications for clinical practice, as they highlight the potential benefits of incorporating these therapies into postoperative pain management plans.

Comparison of suture and sutureless techniques on postoperative complications after third molar surgery: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To compare, among patients undergoing third molar surgeries, whether the use or omission of sutures improves postoperative clinical parameters.

METHOD

A systematic literature review was conducted to identify randomized clinical trials in humans. The steps of this review were conducted following the PRISMA protocol. The risk of bias assessment was performed using the revised Cochrane tool (RoB 2). The RevMan software was employed for meta-analyses, and the quality of evidence was evaluated using GRADE.

RESULT

A total of seven articles were included in the systematic review; however, only one article quantitatively measured bleeding, rendering meta-analysis for this outcome unfeasible. The group of patients in whom sutures were not used presented lower pain and edema on the first day (respectively: MD - 1.08; 95% CI - 1.35 to - 0.81; MD - 1.23; 95% CI - 2.34 to - 0.11) and second day (respectively: MD - 0.50; 95% CI - 0.83 to - 0.17; MD - 10.66; 95% CI - 1.16 to - 0.16) postoperatively, compared to the group where sutures were employed. The group of patients who received sutures exhibited increased trismus on the first day postoperatively (MD 1.04; 95% CI 0.67 to 1.41).

CONCLUSION

The omission of postoperative sutures in third molar surgeries appears to favor pain and edema outcomes within the first 24 h after the procedure, as well as trismus within the same timeframe.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Despite the suture being the standard conduct in tooth extractions. The omission of sutures in third molar extractions may favor inflammatory outcomes of pain, edema, and trismus in the immediate postoperative period.

Does cyanoacrylate have the best postoperative outcomes after third molar extractions when compared to conventional sutures? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

Tissue synthesis is extremely important for the attenuation of postoperative discomforts, as it keeps the tissues coapted, accelerates the healing process, and reduces the bleeding period of the surgical wound. Thus, this study aimed to systematically review the results of clinical trials that compared the use of cyanoacrylate with conventional sutures after third molars extraction.

Materials and methods

Searches were conducted on MEDLINE (via PubMed), Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Virtual Health Library (VHL), and Web of Science. Articles published up to February 20, 2022, were included. No restrictions were imposed on data or language of publication.

Results

A total of 8 studies (5 randomized controlled trials and 3 non-randomized comparative clinical studies) were included in this review and five studies were included in the meta-analysis, comprising 440 patients. The use of cyanoacrylate promoted better results in pain reduction in the first postoperative day when compared to the use of conventional suture (SMD: -1.01; 95%CI -1.90 to -0.12). Cyanoacrylate group promoted significant but borderline edema reduction compared to conventional sutures in the 7th postoperative day (SMD: -0.24, 95%CI -0.46 to -0.01, I2 = 0 %). For the trismus outcome, in all periods evaluated no differences were found between the groups.

Conclusion

Although promising results, there is no high-quality evidence to suggest the use of cyanoacrylate was better than conventional sutures.

Pathologic conditions associated with impacted third molars: A retrospective study of panoramic radiographs in a Southern Brazilian population

Purpose

This study investigated the prevalence of developmental and acquired pathologic conditions associated with impacted third molars (3Ms) in a Southern Brazilian population and evaluated whether demographic and tooth characteristics were correlated with the presence of bone or tooth lesions.

Materials and Methods

Panoramic radiographs were assessed for developmental (bone-related) or acquired (tooth-related) pathoses associated with impacted upper or lower 3Ms. Data on tooth positioning, tooth development, and patient demographics were collected. A trained, calibrated postgraduate student evaluated all images. Binary and multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess associations between outcomes and the demographic and radiographic variables. The threshold for statistical significance was set at 5% (P<0.05).

Results

The sample comprised panoramic radiographs from 2054 patients, predominantly female (59.2%), with a mean age of 27.2 ± 11.5 years. Overall, 4066 impacted 3Ms were evaluated, revealing 471 (11.6%) developmental and 710 (17.5%) acquired pathoses. Among the developmental pathoses, 460 (95.2%) were indicative of dentigerous cysts. Male sex, lower 3M location, vertical or distoangular positioning, and incomplete root formation were associated with an elevated likelihood of developmental pathology. Lower tooth position, complete root formation, and partial eruption were linked to an increased probability of an acquired pathology in the third or second molar.

Conclusion

The prevalence of pathologic conditions associated with impacted 3Ms was low. Male sex, lower 3M placement, horizontal or distoangular positioning, and incomplete root formation were associated with developmental pathoses, while lower tooth position, complete root formation, and partial eruption were related to acquired pathoses.

Do blood concentrates influence inflammatory signs and symptoms after mandibular third molar surgery? A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

OBJECTIVES

To investigate, through a network meta-analysis, the effectiveness of blood concentrates in reducing pain perception, trismus, and edema after mandibular third molar extraction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An electronic search was performed in nine databases to locate randomized clinical trials comparing blood concentrate use after mandibular third molar extraction. Two authors selected and extracted the data independently. The individual risk of bias in the studies was assessed with the RoB v2.0 tool. A network meta-analysis compared postoperative pain and trismus scores after applying different blood concentrates, using the mean difference (MD) as an effect estimate. The GRADE approach assessed the certainty of evidence.

RESULTS

Thirty-one randomized clinical trials were included in the review and 18 in the meta-analysis. Leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) was the most used blood concentrate, followed by platelet-rich plasma (PRP). The network meta-analysis, depending on the analyzed period, evaluated up to 1240 surgeries. Among the analyzed blood concentrates, advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) performed better among the analyzed blood concentrates, decreasing postoperative pain in 1, 2, 3, and 7 days and reducing trismus up to the inflammatory peak compared to blood clots. Only two studies had a low risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on very low certainty of evidence, using concentrates seemed efficient compared to blood clots in reducing pain and trismus after mandibular third molar surgeries. A-PRF decreased postoperative pain throughout the evaluated time and trismus during the acute inflammatory peak.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

A-PRF after mandibular third molar extractions performed better among the analyzed blood concentrates and seemed efficient in improving postoperative quality by decreasing inflammatory signs and symptoms.

Hyaluronic acid in tooth extraction: a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical and clinical trials

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether in animals or patients with ≥ 1 tooth extracted, hyaluronic acid (HyA) application results in superior healing and/or improved complication management compared to any other treatment or no treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three databases were searched until April 2022. The most relevant eligibility criteria were (1) local application of HyA as adjunct to tooth extraction or as treatment of alveolar osteitis, and (2) reporting of clinical, radiographic, histological, or patient-reported data. New bone formation and/or quality were considered main outcome parameters in preclinical studies, while pain, swelling, and trismus were defined as main outcome parameters in clinical studies.

RESULTS

Five preclinical and 22 clinical studies (1062 patients at final evaluation) were included. In preclinical trials, HyA was applied into the extraction socket. Although a positive effect of HyA was seen in all individual studies on bone formation, this effect was not confirmed by meta-analysis. In clinical studies, HyA was applied into the extraction socket or used as spray or mouthwash. HyA application after non-surgical extraction of normally erupted teeth may have a positive effect on soft tissue healing. Based on meta-analyses, HyA application after surgical removal of lower third molars (LM3) resulted in significant reduction in pain perception 7 days postoperatively compared to either no additional wound manipulation or the application of a placebo/carrier. Early post-operative pain, trismus, and extent of swelling were unaffected.

CONCLUSIONS

HyA application may have a positive effect in pain reduction after LM3 removal, but not after extraction of normally erupted teeth.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

HyA application may have a positive effect in pain reduction after surgical LM3 removal, but it does not seem to have any impact on other complications or after extraction of normally erupted teeth. Furthermore, it seems not to reduce post-extraction alveolar ridge modeling, even though preclinical studies show enhanced bone formation.

Patient's perception of recovery following surgical removal of mandibular third molars. A prospective european multi-center study

This study evaluated patient's perception of recovery following surgical removal of mandibular third molars (SRM3s) including analyze of potential risk factors associated with impaired convalescent. Patient related parameters combined with preoperative questionnaires including Modified Dental Anxiety Scale, Oral Health Impact Profile-14, and Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth index were correlated with questionnaires assessing pain, swelling, trismus, sick leave, social and working isolation, physical appearance, eating and speaking ability, diet variations, sleep impairment, impaired sensation of the lip, chin, and tongue, one month following SRM3s. Totally, 412 patients (223 females, 189 males) with mean age of 29.4 years were included. Treatment satisfaction and willingness to undergo similar surgery were reported by 92% and 95%, although 21% reported that the surgery and postoperative period had been worse than expected. Mean days with pain, sick leave, and swelling were 3.6, 2.1, and 3.6, respectively. Preoperative symptoms, dental anxiety level, and prolonged surgical time were associated with increased pain and swelling (P < 0.05). Pell and Gregory classification (I-IIIC) were associated with impaired sensation of the lower lip and chin (P < 0.05). Consequently, results from this study improve the surgeon's ability to predict parameters that predisposed to impaired recovery and neurosensory disturbances following SRM3s.

Photobiomodulation for Pain Relief After Third Molar Extraction: A Randomized Double-Blind Split-Mouth Clinical Trial

Objective: To evaluate the local and systemic application of photobiomodulation (PBM) to reduce pain after third molar extraction. Background: PBM has been applied locally to reduce pain after third molar extraction, but there are no published studies evaluating its systemic application for this purpose. Methods: Thirty patients with two erupted third molars indicated for extraction were included in this split-mouth clinical trial. Extractions were performed 3 weeks apart in each patient, with one extraction socket being randomly assigned to local and systemic PBM (PBM group) and the other to no PBM (control group). Postoperative analgesia consisted of oral acetaminophen for 3 days. Outcomes included pain (visual analog scale), swelling, and quality of life (14-item Oral Health Impact Profile) assessed before and immediately, 24 h, 48 h, and 7 days after extraction. Results were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by Student-Newman-Keuls test. Results: In the control group, pain increased significantly at 24 and 48 h after extraction (p = 0.0000), decreasing after 7 days (before: 0.36; immediately after: 1.06; 24 h: 4.26; 48 h: 2.53; 7 days: 0.36). In the PBM group, patients reported no pain at all time points, indicating effectiveness of local and systemic PBM in relieving pain after third molar extraction (p = 0.2151) (before: 0.30; immediately after: 0.36; 24 h: 0.86; 48 h: 0.30; 7 days: 0.03). PBM also had a modulatory effect on the inflammatory process and improved comfort after extraction. Conclusions: Combined local and systemic PBM can be useful for pain relief, swelling control, and quality-of-life improvement in patients undergoing third molar extraction.

Comparison between the Flapless Surgical Approach and a Novel Single Incision Access in Terms of Recovery Time and Comfort after Extraction of Impacted Inferior Third Molars: A Randomised, Blinded, Split-Mouth Controlled Clinical Trial

The recent attention to quality of life and oral health care procedures reflects a renewed 'patient-based' approach to dealing with non-life-threatening conditions. In the current study, we proposed a novel surgical approach to the extraction of impacted inferior third molars (iMs3) through a randomised, blinded, split-mouth controlled clinical trial following the CONSORT guidelines. The novel surgical procedure, hereinafter referred to as single incision access (SIA), will be compared with our previously described flapless surgical approach (FSA). The predictor variable was the novel SIA approach, involving access through a single incision without removal of soft tissue, on the impacted iMs3. The primary endpoint was the acceleration of the iMs3 extraction healing time. The secondary endpoints were the incidences of pain and oedema as well as gum health (pocket probing depth and attached gingiva). The study was carried out on 84 teeth of 42 patients with both iMs3 impacted. The cohort was composed of 42% Caucasian males and 58% Caucasian females, aged 23.8 ± 7.9 (17-49) years. We observed faster recovery/wound-healing on the SIA side (33.6 ± 4.3 days) than at the FSA side (42.1 ± 5.4 days; p < 0.05). The FSA approach confirmed the evidence previously detected concerning early post-surgery improvement in terms of attached gingiva and reduced oedema and pain, with respect to the traditional envelope flap. The novel SIA approach follows the early positive post-surgery FSA results.

Efficacy of submucosal injection of hyaluronidase after mandibular third molar surgery: a randomized controlled trial

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of postoperative submucosal injection of hyaluronidase (HUD) for reducing sequelae and quality of life (QOL) after mandibular third molar (M3M) surgery.

Materials and Methods

Participants with bilateral impacted M3M underwent surgical extraction with a split-mouth randomized controlled study design. M3M were removed by the same surgeon in 2 sessions, one a control and the other experimental. Submucosal injection of HUD was performed in the experimental session and submucosal injection of saline in the control session. Mouth opening, facial swelling, and pain intensity were measured before surgery, and then 2 and 7 days after surgery. The QOL of participants following surgery was evaluated by means of a patient-centered outcome questionnaire (PCOQ).

Results

A total of 36 patients was included in the final data analysis. There was a significant reduction in the maximal mouth opening and postoperative pain in the experimental side at the 2 and 7 days after surgery (P<0.05), and a remarkable difference in facial swelling was reported on the experimental side 7 days after surgery (P<0.05). The PCOQ demonstrated that participants reported less pain and swelling on the experimental side.

Conclusion

The present study provides clinical evidence that submucosal administration of HUD immediately after M3M surgery reduced postoperative discomfort and improved patients' QOL.

Patient-reported outcome measures in third molar surgery: a scoping review

Despite a surge of interest in patient-centred outcomes (PROMs) in healthcare settings, they remain an underutilised resource in third molar surgery. Clinicians and researchers in the field of oral surgery who are interested in incorporating PROMs into their clinical practice may face challenges in instrument selection with as yet no consensus registry available. PROMs have undoubtedly transcended their original brief as research instruments, with the collection of PROMs data now a routine undertaking in many healthcare systems. Quality improvement, appropriate resource allocation, and measurement of effectiveness of interventions are but a few of their advantages. This review article presents a scoping overview of the instruments most relevant to the third molar surgery population.

Quality of life after extraction of mandibular wisdom teeth: A systematic review

Objective

The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the impact of mandibular wisdom tooth extraction on a patient's quality of life “QoL”.

Methods

An electronic search was conducted through September 2021 on MEDLINE database, ELSEVIER- ScienceDirect, Ebsco, Scopus and Google Scholar to collect sufficient articles relevant to our subject. Data were extracted and analyzed from selected studies including study type, sample size and characteristics, duration of the observation after removal wisdom teeth, the questionnaire used for evaluation of this QoL and, the result.

Results

Of 107 studies, fourteen representing 4990 cases met the inclusion criteria. The quality of life has deteriorated but different factors contributed to his improvement. Thus, different instruments have been used in these studies: 24 the OHIP-14, 10 the OHQoLUK, 8 the HRQOL, 2 the EQ-5D-3L QOL, and 1 used UW-QOL.

Conclusion

The extraction of mandibular wisdom teeth has a negative effect on the quality of life during the first postoperative days but improved progressively by following the medical instructions given by the dental surgeon.

•

Extraction of mandibular wisdom teeth has a negative effect on the quality of life “QOL” during the immediate postoperative period.

•

Several instruments have been used for the assessment of this “QOL”.

•

General and local factors were also involved in the improvement or deterioration of this quality of life.

Effect of plasma rich in growth factors on quality of life following mandibular third molar removal: a double-blind randomized controlled trial

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) on patient- and clinician-reported outcomes following mandibular third molar removal. Seventy-four patients requiring surgical removal of a unilateral impacted mandibular third molar under local anaesthesia were recruited into the study. PRGF was prepared for all patients irrespective of study arm allocation. Reviews were conducted 3 days (T1) and 7 days (T2) postoperatively. Primary outcome measures were pain (numerical rating scale, NRS), OHIP-14 (Oral Health Impact Profile-14), and postoperative symptom severity scale (PoSSe) data. Secondary outcome measures including mouth opening, dry socket, socket healing, and analgesic consumption were also explored. The statistical analysis was performed using analysis of covariance and the χ² test. NRS pain scores were higher in the PRGF group at T1, demonstrating borderline significance (mean difference 1.0; P = 0.06), with no difference at T2. PoSSe scores did not differ between the groups, with the exception of the 'interference with daily activities' subscale at T1, where PRGF group patients scored 1.2 units higher (P = 0.02). OHIP-14 scores demonstrated a 25% increased likelihood of PRGF patients reporting discomfort on eating at T1 (P = 0.02), with no statistical significance at T2. Secondary outcomes did not differ between the groups. No difference in clinical or quality of life outcomes was observed for patients receiving adjunctive PRGF in third molar sockets.

Clonidine versus Adrenaline as an Adjunct to Lignocaine on Haemodynamic Parameters during Nerve Block for Third Molar Surgical Removal - A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Adrenaline or clonidine is used as adjuncts in conjunction with lignocaine to improve the depth of local anaesthesia in dental procedures.

Objectives

This systematic review and meta-analysis intends to compare the haemodynamic parameters when clonidine or adrenaline is used in conjunction with lignocaine for third-molar surgical removal.

Data Sources

Cochrane, PubMed and Ovid SP databases were searched using "MeSH" terms (((nerve block) OR (IANB)) AND ((clonidine) OR (adrenaline))) AND (lignocaine).

Study Eligibility Criteria

Clinical studies where Clonidine + lignocaine and Adrenaline + lignocaine were compared directly during nerve block administration exclusively for third molar surgical removal were selected.

Participants Study Appraisal

This current systematic review is registered in Prospero database CRD42021279446. Two independent reviewers were involved in collection, segregation and analysis of electronic data. The data were compiled in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Search was conducted till June 2021.

Synthesis Methods

Qualitative analysis of the selected articles was performed for systematic review. Meta-analysis is performed using RevMan 5 Software. Heterogeneity through the I2 statistics. Change in the haemodynamic parameters was the primary outcome evaluated, and secondary outcomes evaluated were onset and duration of anaesthesia in both the groups.

Results

In all databases, 1141 records were screened, out of which a total of 21 articles were included for the evaluation for full-text analysis. Out of these, 16 articles were excluded and 5 articles were included for the final systematic review. Meta-analysis was performed only for 4 studies.

Conclusion

Amongst the evaluated haemodynamic parameters, there was a significant reduction in the heart rate (baseline to intraoperative period) in clonidine and lignocaine groups than in adrenaline and lignocaine groups during nerve block administration for third molar surgical removal. There was no significant difference between other primary and secondary outcomes evaluated.

Limitations

Blinding was not performed in all the studies, randomisation was performed in only three studies. The volume of local anaesthesia deposited varied in the studies (2 mL in three studies and 2.5 mL in two studies). Most of the studies (n = 4) were evaluated on normal adults and only one study evaluated mild hypertensive patients.

The use of advanced platelet-rich fibrin after surgical removal of mandibular third molars: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The objective of this systematic review was to test the hypothesis of no difference in recovery following surgical removal of mandibular third molars with the application of advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) in the extraction socket compared with alternative biomaterials or natural wound healing. A search of MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus was conducted. Human randomized controlled trials published in English up until December 31, 2020 were included. Outcome measures were pain, facial swelling, trismus, soft tissue healing, alveolar osteitis, and quality of life; these were evaluated by descriptive statistics and meta-analysis including 95% confidence intervals (CI). Four studies with a low or moderate risk of bias fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A-PRF resulted in significantly lower pain scores when compared with leucocyte platelet-rich fibrin or natural wound healing after 2 days (-16.8, 95% CI -18.9 to -14.7), 3 days (-12.1, 95% CI -13.4 to -10.7), and 7 days (-1.9, 95% CI -2.9 to -0.9). A-PRF seems to have a negligible effect on facial swelling and trismus and some beneficial effect on soft tissue healing. Alveolar osteitis and quality of life were not assessed. The included studies were characterized by considerable heterogeneity and confounding variables. Thus, the level of evidence appears to be inadequate for clinical recommendations according to the focused question.

Does kinesio taping reduce pain, swelling, and trismus after mandibular third molar surgery? A systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this study is to provide an evidence-based conclusion regarding the effectiveness of kinesio taping (KT) in reducing postsurgical discomforts after mandibular third molar surgery and critically appraise the available literature. Eligible clinical trials evaluating patients older than 18 years who were treated with any type of KT compared to no taping in which pain, swelling, or trismus scores were reported were included. An electronic literature search was carried out in the following databases to identify relevant papers up to May 30, 2021: Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Scopus. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2.0). The effect sizes were calculated using mean difference (MD) and standardized mean difference (SMD). The heterogeneity analysis was conducted using (I²) statistic at alpha = 0.10 (PROSPERO; CRD42021252670). Nine randomized clinical trials with 444 participants were included in the qualitative analysis and eight in the quantitative analysis. The results of the meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in pain and swelling scores before the 7th postoperative day. On the 7th postoperative day, no significant difference was observed between KT and control groups in terms of pain and swelling. Additionally, KT led to an increase in patients' maximum mouth opening of more than 3 mm in postoperative intervals. KT is effective in reducing postoperative pain within the first 48 h after surgery and improving mouth opening during all postoperative intervals with moderate to high certainty of evidence.

Dental anxiety is related to postoperative symptoms in third molar surgery

PURPOSE

To examine the association of preoperative dental anxiety with the severity of postoperative symptoms among patients undergoing lower third molar (LM3) extraction surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a hospital-based prospective study with a sample size of 213 patients. All the patients underwent LM3 extraction surgery at the Stomatology Hospital of Tianjin Medical University. Preoperative dental anxiety was measured using the Dental Anxiety Scale for Third Molar Surgery (DAS-TMS) and classified into four categories: No anxiety, Some unease, Anxious, and Very anxious. The primary outcome was defined using the postoperative symptom severity scale on the seventh day after surgery. The patients' clinical characteristics, radiologic features, and surgery-related variables were used as control variables. Bivariate analysis involved Fisher's exact test and Kruskal-Wallis test. Multivariable logistic analysis was used to assess preoperative dental anxiety in relation to the severity of postoperative symptoms. We applied a two-piecewise regression model to examine the potential non-linear associations.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) dental anxiety score was 10.56 (3.84). The proportion of dental anxiety was as follows: No anxiety, 7.5%; Some unease, 46.9%; Anxious, 31.0%; Very anxious, 14.6%. The multivariable-adjusted ORs with 95% CIs of postoperative symptoms were 1.00 for No anxiety, 3.63 (0.90-14.68) for Some unease, 5.29 (1.25-22.33) for Anxious, and 4.75 (1.02-22.18) for Very anxious (P for trend = 0.047). The risk of serious postoperative symptoms increased with the dental anxiety level up to 7 points (adjusted OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.12-3.74; P = 0.012). When the dental anxiety level exceeded 7 points, the level of DAS-TMS was not associated with the risk of serious postoperative symptoms (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.88-1.08; P = 0.756).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that dental anxiety is associated with a risk of serious postoperative symptoms following LM3 removal. The degree of dental anxiety in patients before LM3 extraction surgery should be of concern to clinicians.

Is perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis in the case of routine surgical removal of the third molar still justified? A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with a split-mouth design

INTRODUCTION

Since antimicrobial resistance, caused by various factors including antibiotic overuse and abuse, is a severe challenge, the necessity of perioperative antibiotic prophylactic for surgical third molar removal remains a contentious topic. This study determined whether perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis can reduce surgical site infections (SSIs), swelling, and pain in the case of surgical removal of wisdom teeth.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with a split-mouth design. A study medication of 2 g amoxicillin, administered 1 h before the third molar removal, followed by 1.5 g each for the first 3 postoperative days, was compared with placebo medication. The primary outcome variable (SSI), secondary clinical parameters (swelling and trismus), and patient-centered outcome measures (bleeding, swelling, pain, and pain medication intake) were documented until postoperative day 7. Statistical analyses were done with a paired t test, t test for independent samples, Chi-square test, and McNemar test, including effect sizes.

RESULTS

Primary outcome SSI, in total 11%, and clinical parameters swelling and trismus were not significantly different between the two groups. The patient-centered outcome measures (bleeding, swelling, and pain) did not significantly differ, except for postoperative bleeding in the EG on day 0. No significant result was found with pain medication intake postoperative on days 0-7.

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative administration of oral antibiotics neither revealed additional benefits in patient-related outcome measures nor reduced postoperative complications compared with the placebo group indicated at routine surgical removal of noninflamed wisdom teeth.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Taking antimicrobial resistance into account, clear recommendations for administering drugs, particularly antibiotics, are critical in oral surgery.

USING DENTAL PATIENT-REPORTED OUTCOMES (dPROs) IN META-ANALYSES: A SCOPING REVIEW AND METHODOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION

Many studies use dental patient-reported outcomes (dPROs) to evaluate treatments and interventions. However, the consensus on the methodology for combining results of dPROs for meta-analysis has not yet been fully established or widely discussed. The aim of this study is to conduct a scoping review for the methodological issues and difficulties specific to meta-analysis of dPROs and to put forward recommendations for improving quality of meta-analyses of dPRO. We searched the Google Scholar and PubMed databases and identified meta-analysis with dPROs in English. A total of 22 meta-analyses were included in our scoping review, and their characteristics, such as reported outcomes, questionnaires, and effect measures, were extracted. We identified several methodological issues within current literature: (1) synthesizing results from studies with different rating scales; (2) meta-analyses with few studies; (3) the interpretation of standardized mean difference; (4) including studies of different cut-off values in a meta-analysis; and (5) systematic errors due to different instruments. According to each issue mentioned, we provided guidance and recommendations on how to resolve those issues, including using the same Likert scale, conducting an overall and subgroup meta-analysis, using a random-effects model in a meta-analysis, etc. More efforts are required to improve the conduct and interpretation of meta-analyses on dPROs.

Is the Er: YAG Laser Effective in Reducing Pain, Edema and Trismus After Removal of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars? A Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

Removal of impacted third molars, can be associated with complications such as pain, edema, trismus, that can increase the morbidity of this procedure. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the Er: YAG laser is effective in reducing pain, swelling and trismus compared to rotary instruments in removing impacted lower third molars (3 LM`s).

METHODS

For this systematic review the searches were carried out independently by 2 researchers and the articles were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria previously established. The predictor variable was the study group (Er: YAG laser versus rotatory instruments). The main outcome was the analysis of post-operative pain, edema and trismus after third molars extractions. Data analysis included the risk of bias evaluation (RoB 2 Cochrane) and meta-analysis with random effects I² based heterogeneity and 95% confidence.

RESULTS

In the initial results, 1,371 articles were found and 6 RCT were selected to compose this study. A total of 299, 3 LM`s were removed, 126 with the Er: YAG laser, 142 with a drill and 31 with a piezoelectric instrument. The results of this meta-analysis showed that in the laser group there was a significant reduction in edema (1.82 [CI95% = -3.06 to -0.57] cm (P = .004)) and complications (P = .0004), a slight reduction in pain after 2 days (P = .030) and there was no variation in trismus (P = .200) when compared to the drill group. The surgery and/or osteotomy time was shorter in the drill group. Only 1 study presented low risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

The Er: YAG laser has been shown to be effective in reducing edema, pain and complications in impacted lower third molar surgeries. however due to the lack of standardization in Er: YAG laser therapy, new controlled and standardized studies should be performed with the aim of proving the efficacy of this therapeutic modality.

Oral Health-related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) Following Surgical Extraction of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars: Preliminary Observations in a Saudi Arabian Subpopulation

INTRODUCTION

OHQoL is crucial for the best preoperative assessment and development of suitable indications for mandibular third molar surgical extraction. The current study hopes to report QoL after surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective study conducted in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, between January 2020 and April 2020. After consenting to partake in the study, patients' baseline demographics, indication for seeking third molar removal and laterality of impaction were recorded. All the surgical extractions were performed by the same surgeon. Pain was assessed pre and postoperatively with the numerical pain rating scale while QoL was assessed pre and postoperatively using the validated Arabic version of the 16 item United Kingdom Oral Health Related Quality of Life measure (UK-OHQoL).

RESULTS

A total of 92 patients were recruited. There are 41 (44.6%) males and 51 (55.4%) females with M:F of 1:1.2. Age range was between 18 and 48 years with a mean of (31.2 ± 6.6) years. Age group 20-29 years constitutes the highest number of patients. Subscales: eating, appearance, sleep, mood and work revealed more percentage complaints (42.9%, 23.4%, 24.7%, 28.6%, and 16.9%, respectively). Regarding mean domain and overall QoL scores, it was observed that there was gradual improvement in mean scores from the Pre-op values and the review periods with best mean QoL reported at POD 14.

CONCLUSION

Improvement in overall mean QoL scores during the review periods as compared with the preoperative score was observed. Eating, appearance, sleep, mood and work subscales revealed more percentage complaints.

The Use of Cryotherapy in Conjunction with Surgical Removal of Mandibular Third Molars: a Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives

Cryotherapy is frequently used to diminish postoperative sequelae following mandibular third molar surgery. The objective of this single-blinded randomized controlled trial was to assess the therapeutic efficiency of 30 minutes continuous cryotherapy on postoperative sequelae following surgical removal of mandibular third molars compared with no cryotherapy.

Material and Methods

Thirty patients (14 male and 16 female) including 60 mandibular third molars were randomly allocated to 30 minutes of immediately cryotherapy or no cryotherapy. Outcome measures included pain (visual analogue scale score), maximum mouth opening (trismus) and quality of life (oral health impact profile-14). Outcome measures were assessed preoperatively and one day, three days, seven days and one month following surgical removal of mandibular third molars. Descriptive and generalized estimating equation analyses were made. Level of significance was 0.05.

Results

No cryotherapy following surgical removal of mandibular third molars revealed a statistically significant lower visual analogue scale score of pain compared to thirty minutes of continuous cryotherapy after one day (P < 0.05). However, no statistically significant difference in trismus or oral health-related quality of life were revealed at any time point compared with no cryotherapy.

Conclusions

The therapeutic effect of 30 minutes continuous cryotherapy following surgical removal of mandibular third molars seem to be negligible. Thus, further randomized controlled trials assessing a prolonged application period of cryotherapy, alternative devices or use of intermittent cryotherapy are needed before definite conclusions and evidence-based clinical recommendations can be provided.

Does low dose of etoricoxib play pre-emptive analgesic effect in third molar surgery? A randomized clinical trial

Background

How to prevent pain after the extraction of impacted teeth is a serious challenge for all patients. The purpose of this clinical trial was to investigate whether pre-emptive low dose of etoricoxib can reduce postoperative pain in patients undergoing third molars surgery.

Methods

Patients were randomised to receive etoricoxib 60 mg or placebo 30 min before surgery. Post-operative pain was recorded using a visual analogue scale during 24 h within the post-operative period. The total dose of ibuprofen rescue intake was recorded. Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank analyses were used to evaluate the proportion of patients without rescue analgesic.

Results

Scores for the post-operative pain in the etoricoxib group were significantly lower than those in the placebo group during first 12 h (p < 0.05). The number of patients without analgesic rescue medication was significantly lower in the etoricoxib group than in the placebo group. The average amount of rescue medication in the etoricoxib group (0.4 ± 0.9 dose) was lower than that in the placebo group (1.1 ± 0.9 doses, p = 0.004). Etoricoxib resulted in the long-term survival of patients without rescue analgesic (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study revealed that etoricoxib has a substantial pre-emptive analgesic effect, resulting in the reduced use of analgesics after third molar removal.

Trial registration: Registered on ChiCTR1900024503. Date of Registration: 13/07/2019.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12903-021-01837-0.

Postoperative oral drug regimen to control the inflammatory complications in mandibular third molar surgery: protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This network meta-analysis aims to rank the best postoperative drug regimen to control inflammatory complications related to mandibular third molar surgery.

INTRODUCTION

Many studies of oral drugs have been proposed to control postoperative inflammatory complications after third molar surgeries with inconclusive results. A systematic review with network meta-analysis in this field may clarify the best therapeutic protocol for practice in dentistry.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This review will consider randomized clinical trials that included healthy adult patients or those who had treated and controlled systemic diseases; asymptomatic patients who were free of acute infection or inflammation at the surgical site immediately before third molar surgery; and patients submitted to surgical removal of one lower third molar at a time in which they have received oral anti-inflammatory and/or analgesics in the postoperative moment. The outcomes are pain, edema, trismus, and adverse effects.

METHODS

Sources of published studies, unpublished studies, and gray literature will be searched without time or language restrictions. Titles and abstracts of all search results will be screened by two independent reviewers. The full text of potentially relevant studies will be assessed. Methodological quality of the included studies will be performed using the JBI checklist for experimental studies. Data related to specific details about the population, study methods, interventions, and outcomes will be extracted from the included studies. The findings will be presented in a narrative form and polled in network meta-analysis, when possible.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO CRD42020196692.

Can Kinesio taping improve discomfort after mandibular third molar surgery? A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether Kinesio taping (KT) can improve patient discomfort after mandibular third molar surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the PICO strategy. We searched 4 databases for related articles. All controlled trials or randomized controlled trials that evaluated the application of KT after mandibular third molar surgery were included. Screening and article selection were carried out by two independent reviewers. The main evaluation indicators were facial swelling, pain, and trismus. All statistical analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.3 software.

RESULT

This analysis included 8 articles. The combined results showed that compared with the control group, the postoperative application of KT significantly reduced pain in the early (early stage mean difference (MD), - 2.00; 95% confidence interval (CI), - 2.40 to - 1.60; P < 0.00001) and late (late stage MD, - 1.18; 95% CI, - 2.26 to - 0.11; P = 0.03) postoperative periods and, thus, reduced the intake of painkillers. KT also reduced facial swelling in the early and late postoperative periods (early stage standardized mean difference (SMD), - 1.34; 95% CI, - 1.99 to - 0.68; P < 0.0001; late stage SMD, - 0.31; 95% CI, - 0.51 to - 0.11; P = 0.002). In addition, the postoperative application of KT improved restricted mouth opening in the early and late postoperative periods (early stage MD, - 5.03 mm; 95% CI, - 6.32 to - 3.74 mm; P < 0.00001; late stage MD, - 3.42 mm; 95% CI, - 5.31 to - 1.52 mm; P = 0.0004).

CONCLUSION

KT can significantly reduce postoperative pain, swelling, and trismus after impacted mandibular tooth extraction. Additional high-quality and rigorously designed randomized controlled trials should be conducted to verify these conclusions.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

KT is a low-cost, simple, effective nondrug therapy for the postoperative management of mandibular third molar extraction and has broad prospects for clinical application.

Quality of Life of Patients after Kinesio Tape Applications Following Impacted Mandibular Third Molar Surgeries

Today, extraction of the impacted third molar is the most common procedure performed in oral surgery departments. One of the methods currently investigated—in terms reducing the severity of non-infectious complications and decreasing Quality of Life following third molar surgeries—is Kinesio Taping (KT). The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of Kinesio Tape application on Quality of Life. A total of 100 asymptomatic patients with impacted third lower molar were included. The study participants were randomly divided into two groups: a study group with the application of KT (n = 50) and a control group (without KT) (n = 50). Removal of the impacted third lower molar was performed in each patient in a standardized fashion. For assessment of Quality of Life, the modified University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UW-QoL v4) was used. Patients with Kinesio Tape application scored higher in all domains. Statistically significant differences between the two groups were found in the following domains: “Activity”, “Mood”, “Health-related QoL during the past 7 days” and “Overall QoL during the past 7 days”. There were no significant differences in significant problems and important issues between groups. Kinesio Taping has a significant impact on Quality of Life after impacted third molar removal. It should be considered as one of the noninvasive methods to reduce postoperative non-infectious complications.

Photobiomodulation therapy reduces postoperative pain after third molar extractions: A randomized clinical trial

Background

To assess the efficacy of PBMT on reducing postoperative pain scores in patients submitted to third molar extractions.

Material and Methods

A randomized controlled trial (ReBEC:RBR-94BCKZ) was designed according to the SPIRIT and followed the CONSORT. Patients were randomly allocated according to control or PBMT groups. PBMT consisted of the application of GaAlAs laser (808nm;50mW) applied in six points (1.23 min;11 J/cm2) after extraction. Pain scores were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) in millimeters evaluated after 6 (T6), 24 (T24), and 48 (T48) hours. The Wilcoxon Mann–Whitney test was used to check for possible associations between VAS scores and treatment groups.

Results

A total of 101 third molar extractions were performed in 44 patients. The mean age was 28 years old(SD±11.54). Comparing control and intervention, PBMT group showed a significant effect on the reduction of postoperative pain at T6(mean VAS=0.9; C.I:0.63–1.16) compared to control (mean VAS=2.5;C.I:2.1–2.88)(p<0.001). The same statistically significant effect on the reduction of postoperative pain was observed at T24 (PBMT mean VAS=0.72;C.I:0.51–0.93; control mean VAS=2.86;C.I:2.40–3.31;p<0.001) and T48 (PBMT mean VAS=0.64;C.I:0.36–0.92; control mean VAS=2.86;C.I:2.37–3.34;p<0.001).

Conclusions

PBMT significantly reduce the postoperative pain scores when assessed 6, 24, and 48 hours after third molar extractions.

Key words:Controlled clinical trial, gallium aluminium arsenide lasers, third molar.

Incidence of alveolar osteitis after mandibular third molar surgery. Can inflammatory cytokines be identified locally?

OBJECTIVES

The aims of the present study were to evaluate the relative incidence of alveolar osteitis (AO) after mandibular third molar surgery, post-operative findings and local expression of bone markers and cytokines.

STUDY DESIGN

In 445 patients, unilateral surgical third molars extractions were undertaken (584 teeth). Bone markers and cytokines were explored at the AO side and on the un-operated contralateral side and compared with the levels in samples from a control group of 18 persons without AO.

RESULTS

The relative incidence of AO was 4.6%. Patients (n = 27) with AO were invited to participate in the study and 21 (77.8%) did so. Patients with AO had 1-4 extra visits for treatment of AO, the mean follow-up time was 2.6 days for all patients. There were significantly higher levels of bone markers and cytokines in the AO site compared with the un-operated contralateral site, except for Epidermal growth factor (EGF). No significant difference in expression of bone markers and cytokines between the AO and control groups was found. Lower maximum inter-incisor opening (MIO) was correlated with increased Macrophage inflammatory protein 1 alpha. A negative correlation between patients' complaint of trismus and MIO was seen.

CONCLUSIONS

The relative incidence of AO was low in our patient group treated with surgical removal of third molars. AO was more frequently seen in female patients. Treatment of AO required up to four extra visits. The study provides some information on the role of cytokines in AO; but further studies are required.

Preemptive Oral Etoricoxib on Health-Related Quality of Life after Mandibular Third Molar Surgery: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

This study was aimed at evaluating the use of oral etoricoxib for preemptive analgesia on the health-related quality of life (QoL) outcome after the extraction of mandibular third molar. The study population consisted of 60 participants that required extraction of a single partial bony impacted mandibular third molar under local anesthesia and met the inclusion criteria. The participants were randomized into two groups. The etoricoxib group orally received 60 mg etoricoxib 30 min before surgery, whereas the control group was given a placebo. The patients were assessed postoperatively after 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 days using the United Kingdom oral health-related QoL questionnaire and visual analog scale for maximum postoperative pain. The total dose of ibuprofen rescue intake and total number of days the drug was taken were recorded. Surgical removal of impacted teeth had a negative influence on the patient's QoL across various physical, social, and psychological aspects. The scores for postoperative pain in the etoricoxib group were significantly lower than those in the control group on each postoperative observation day. The number of patients without analgesic rescue medication, the average amount, and total number of days emergency analgesics were taken were significantly lower in the etoricoxib group than in the control group. The etoricoxib group showed better QoL score than the control group. Preemptive oral etoricoxib is an effective therapeutic strategy for improving the QoL after surgical removal of the impacted lower third molar.

Pre-Operative Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients Attending Surgical Removal of Mandibular Third Molar Teeth

The study aimed to measure the pre-operative oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and to identify patient and teeth pathologies associated with worse OHRQoL among patients attending mandibular third molar tooth extraction. Data were collected preoperatively from 199 patients attending surgical removal of their mandibular third molar. To that end, we measured the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) and analyzed its association with: (1) demographics; (2) health-related behaviors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and dietary habits; (3) Plaque Index (PI); (4) Decay, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT); and (5) clinical characteristics related to third molar extraction, such as the indication for extraction, tooth angulations, and radiographic pathology. The mean age of the study population was 21.5 ± 3.2 years and the mean OHIP-14 global score was 22.5 ± 8.3. The present study identified patient and teeth profiles that are associated with worse pre-operative OHRQoL in patients attending mandibular third molar extraction. The “vulnerable patient” profile includes poor health-related behaviors, particularly the performance of physical activity less than once a week (p = 0.028). The “disturbing teeth” profile includes higher plaque scores (p = 0.023) and specific characteristics of the third molar teeth, such as pericoronitis (p = 0.027) and radiolucency around third molars in panoramic radiography (p < 0.001). These findings support the hypothesis that OHRQoL is a complex phenomenon which is associated with the patient’s health-related behaviors as well as with specific tooth pathologies.

Postoperative pain and edema control following different protocols of preemptive analgesia in the surgical removal of impacted third molars: A triple-blind parallel randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial

This randomized controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the preemptive effects of acetaminophen, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, nimesulide or dexamethasone on postoperative pain and edema in the surgical removal of impacted third molars. Participants underwent bilateral surgeries at 2 different times and were randomly given the test drug or placebo (split-mouth). Postoperative pain, edema and rescue medication were evaluated at different times. Study power was >80% for the observed effect size in the crossover repeated measures design. Differences between test drug and placebo were the response variable. Generalized Estimation Equation models were adjusted for each outcome. Sample comprised 5 groups (n = 20 each). Ibuprofen and nimesulide showed higher overall effects on pain scores over time, with no differences between them (p = 0.557). Acetaminophen showed significantly lower overall effects in edema control over time, when compared to other test drugs, that showed similar effects. Lower quantity of rescue medication were also observed for ibuprofen and nimesulide, with no differences between them (p = 0.999). Ibuprofen and nimesulide showed beneficial overall preemptive effects. Hence, in the decision-making process for preemptive analgesia in impacted third molar surgeries, ibuprofen and nimesulide should be considered on a case-by-case basis as the drugs of choice.

Effect of different factors on patient perception of surgical discomfort in third molar surgery

The aim of this study was to evaluate patient perception of surgical discomfort in third molar surgery and the association with clinical variables and polymorphisms associated with the FKBP5, SLC6A4, and COMT genes. This cross-sectional observational study was carried out on 196 participants aged between 18 and 64 years at the Federal University of Paraná in 11 months. The intensity of surgical discomfort was assessed using the QCirDental questionnaire. Data on surgical and individual procedures were also cataloged. The oral health related quality of life was assessed by the Oral Health Impact Profile questionnaire (OHIP-14). The DNA sample was obtained from cells of the oral mucosa. Five markers of the FKBP5, SLC6A4, and COMT genes were genotyped. The data were submitted to statistical analysis with a significance level of 5%. Women reported greater intensity of discomfort associated with third molar surgery compared to men (p = 0.001). In the recessive model, the AA genotype of the rs3800373 marker was associated with greater surgical discomfort (p = 0.026). Therefore, women and individuals of the AA genotype for the rs3800373 marker in the FKBP5 gene reported greater surgical discomfort associated with third molar surgery.

Alveolar iodine tampon packing after impacted third molar surgery improves oral health-related quality of life and postoperative sequela: a randomized study

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an iodine tampon on postoperative discomfort after surgical removal of a mandibular third molar.

Material and methods

Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: one group received an alveolar iodine-containing tampon in the extraction socket (N = 44), and the other group used a disposable syringe (Monoject®) to rinse the wound (N = 43). Postoperative discomfort was assessed with the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire, Pain Intensity Numerical Rating Scale (PI-NRS), and questions about self-care and discomfort.

Results

This study included 87 patients (52 women and 35 men) with an average age of 26.47 years (SD, 6.36). The mean OHIP-14 sum scores were significantly lower in the iodine tampon group compared with the Monoject® syringe group. Mean PI-NRS scores significantly differed between the iodine tampon group (3.33; SE, 0.27) and Monoject® syringe group (4.46; SE, 0.27) (F (1, 85) = 8.16, p < 0.01), with no interaction effect between time and PI-NRS (F (6, 510) = 1.26, p = 0.28). Patients in the iodine tampon group reported less postoperative discomfort.

Conclusions

Insertion of an iodine-containing tampon in the postoperative socket reduced the pain and impact on oral health-related quality of life during the first postoperative week and positively influenced postoperative sequelae.

The Effectiveness of Hyaluronic Acid in Controlling Pain, Edema, and Trismus After Extraction of Third Molars: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical evidence of hyaluronic acid (HA) in minimizing inflammatory parameters such as pain, edema, and trismus after extraction of third molar (3M). An electronic search was conducted in 4 databases. The eligibility criteria included clinical trials that used HA compared with placebo or no treatment after 3M surgeries. The search strategy resulted in 752 references, of which 5 studies were included comprising 271 patients. Regarding the risk of bias analysis, most criteria were rated as low or unclear risk of bias. All the evaluated studies were classified as low risk of bias in the selective reporting criteria. The final quantitative analysis of the variables showed that the use of HA resulted in a greater reduction of pain levels on the third (mean difference = -0.68; 95% confidence interval, -1.20 to -0.17) and seventh (mean difference = -0.36; 95% confidence interval, -0.64 to -0.09) postoperative days. There are no differences between the analyzed groups in relation to trismus. It was not possible to conduct meta-analysis for the edema variable because of the heterogeneity of the methods of measurement. The results suggest that HA seems to provide a lower average pain on the third and seventh postoperative days and has no influence on postoperative trismus after extraction of 3Ms; however, more research with stronger methodology is needed to determine its efficacy.

Surgical removal versus retention for the management of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic removal of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth is the surgical removal of wisdom teeth in the absence of symptoms and with no evidence of local disease. Impacted wisdom teeth may be associated with pathological changes, such as pericoronitis, root resorption, gum and alveolar bone disease (periodontitis), caries and the development of cysts and tumours. When surgical removal is performed in older people, the risk of postoperative complications, pain and discomfort is increased. Other reasons to justify prophylactic removal of asymptomatic disease-free impacted third molars have included preventing late lower incisor crowding, preventing damage to adjacent structures such as the second molar or the inferior alveolar nerve, in preparation for orthognathic surgery, in preparation for radiotherapy or during procedures to treat people with trauma to the affected area. Removal of asymptomatic disease-free wisdom teeth is a common procedure, and researchers must determine whether evidence supports this practice. This review is an update of an review originally published in 2005 and previously updated in 2012 and 2016.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of removal compared with retention (conservative management) of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth in adolescents and adults.

SEARCH METHODS

Cochrane Oral Health's Information Specialist searched the following databases: Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register (to 10 May 2019), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (the Cochrane Library, 2019, Issue 4), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 10 May 2019), and Embase Ovid (1980 to 10 May 2019). The US National Institutes of Health Trials Registry (ClinicalTrials.gov)and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched for ongoing trials. No restrictions were placed on the language or date of publication when searching the electronic databases. .

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), with no restriction on length of follow-up, comparing removal (or absence) with retention (or presence) of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth in adolescents or adults. We also considered quasi-RCTs and prospective cohort studies for inclusion if investigators measured outcomes with follow-up of five years or longer.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Eight review authors screened search results and assessed the eligibility of studies for inclusion according to the review inclusion criteria. Eight review authors independently and in duplicate conducted the risk of bias assessments. When information was unclear, we contacted the study authors for additional information.

MAIN RESULTS

This review update includes the same two studies that were identified in our previous version of the review: one RCT with a parallel-group design, which was conducted in a dental hospital setting in the United Kingdom, and one prospective cohort study, which was conducted in the private sector in the USA. Primary outcome No eligible studies in this review reported the effects of removal compared with retention of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth on health-related quality of life Secondary outcomes We found only low- to very low-certainty evidence of the effects of removal compared with retention of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth for a limited number of secondary outcome measures. One prospective cohort study, reporting data from a subgroup of 416 healthy male participants, aged 24 to 84 years, compared the effects of the absence (previous removal or agenesis) against the presence of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth on periodontitis and caries associated with the distal aspect of the adjacent second molar during a follow-up period of three to over 25 years. Very low-certainty evidence suggests that the presence of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth may be associated with increased risk of periodontitis affecting the adjacent second molar in the long term. In the same study, which is at serious risk of bias, there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate a difference in caries risk associated with the presence or absence of impacted wisdom teeth. One RCT with 164 randomised and 77 analysed adolescent participants compared the effect of extraction with retention of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth on dimensional changes in the dental arch after five years. Participants (55% female) had previously undergone orthodontic treatment and had 'crowded' wisdom teeth. No evidence from this study, which was at high risk of bias, was found to suggest that removal of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth has a clinically significant effect on dimensional changes in the dental arch. The included studies did not measure any of our other secondary outcomes: costs, other adverse events associated with retention of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth (pericoronitis, root resorption, cyst formation, tumour formation, inflammation/infection) and adverse effects associated with their removal (alveolar osteitis/postoperative infection, nerve injury, damage to adjacent teeth during surgery, bleeding, osteonecrosis related to medication/radiotherapy, inflammation/infection).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Insufficient evidence is available to determine whether asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth should be removed or retained. Although retention of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth may be associated with increased risk of periodontitis affecting adjacent second molars in the long term, the evidence is very low certainty. Well-designed RCTs investigating long-term and rare effects of retention and removal of asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth, in a representative group of individuals, are unlikely to be feasible. In their continuing absence, high quality, long-term prospective cohort studies may provide valuable evidence in the future. Given the current lack of available evidence, patient values should be considered and clinical expertise used to guide shared decision-making with people who have asymptomatic disease-free impacted wisdom teeth. If the decision is made to retain these teeth, clinical assessment at regular intervals to prevent undesirable outcomes is advisable.