The effect of topical application of Inula viscosa extract on complications following lower third molar surgery.

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the effect of the topical application of Inula viscosa extract after the surgical extraction of the lower third molars on postoperative complications (pain, edema, and trismus).

Materials and Methods: The study sample consists of 30 patients (16 males and 14 females) aged between 18 and 35 years, each with two impacted or partially impacted lower third molars. Both molars were surgically extracted with a time interval between extractions sufficient for complete healing. A pharmaceutically prepared Inula viscosa extract was applied after the extraction of one side, while no pharmaceutical preparation was applied after the extraction of the opposite side. Postoperative complications (pain, edema, and trismus) were assessed at multiple time intervals.

Conclusion: The results of our study regarding pain indicated that the application of Inula viscosa extract had no significant effect on pain levels across all time intervals. Additionally, the extract did not reduce the number of analgesic tablets consumed by the patient after surgery. However, the study demonstrated that Inula viscosa extract effectively reduces edema after lower third molar surgery. Moreover, no clear benefit of Inula viscosa extract was observed in reducing the extent of trismus after surgery.