Irrigants used in the Surgical Removal of Impacted Third Molars – A Review

Abstract

Impacted third molars are commonly removed surgically and a variety of postoperative complications such as pain, swelling, infection, dry socket and trismus may occur. In order to reduce the intensity of these symptoms and to improve the outcome of the procedure, several techniques have been employed. The use of irrigation solutions is one such technique. As with any material or procedure, irrigants have also evolved to overcome shortcomings of the earlier solutions. The important requirement of any irrigant is to prevent infection by destroying microbes and to prevent pain and post-operative swelling. This article is a review about the various irrigation solutions employed in surgical procedures pertaining to the third molars.