Hyaluronic Acid Gel After Impacted Mandibular Third Molar Surgery

Surgical removal of impacted lower wisdom teeth can cause pain, facial swelling, difficulty opening the mouth, and discomfort during wound healing. This study evaluates whether placing a gel containing 0.2% hyaluronic acid into the tooth socket immediately after removal improves recovery compared with standard care alone. Adults requiring removal of similarly impacted lower wisdom teeth on both sides of the mouth undergo two separate operations at least 28 days apart. Each participant receives hyaluronic acid gel in one socket, while the other socket receives no additional material. Both sockets are closed with stitches. The order of surgery and the side receiving the gel are randomly assigned. Participants are not told which side receives the gel. Recovery is compared between the two sides of each participant. Pain and perceived swelling are recorded on days 1, 3, and 7 after each operation. Facial measurements and mouth opening are assessed before surgery and on days 3 and 7. Gum healing is assessed on days 3 and 7, and any complications are recorded. Participants receive the same routine postoperative care after both operations.