Postoperative pain, facial swelling, and trismus are common after mandibular third molar surgery, often delaying recovery and affecting patient comfort. While intra-socket drug delivery offers targeted local therapy, the comparative benefit of dexamethasone and hyaluronic acid remains uncertain. A study published in the Journal of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery evaluated their effectiveness in improving postoperative outcomes. Among 54 patients allocated to control (saline), dexamethasone, and hyaluronic acid groups, dexamethasone-soaked gelfoam demonstrated better preservation of mouth opening on postoperative days 3 and 7.
Facial swelling and pain scores showed no significant differences, although both intervention groups had lower mean pain values compared with control. Antibiotic and analgesic consumption were comparable across all groups. These findings suggest that intra-socket…
