Alveolar osteitis (AO), or dry socket, is an extremely painful condition that can follow mandibular third molar extractions. According to an article by Caso, Hung, and Beirne, AO usually manifests itself 2 to 5 days after surgery, and there is evidence that bacteria in the wound may contribute to fibrinolysis and loss of blood clot. The authors conducted a literature review to determine if clinical evidence supports the use of chlorhexidine rinses to reduce AO. Seven studies met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis. While it could not be determined if a single rinse with chlorhexidine on the day of surgery significantly reduced the incidence of AO, the study supported the use of chlorhexidine rinsing at least on the day of surgery and for several days following mandibular third molar extraction to reduce the incidence of AO. The authors noted that further studies are needed to determine the best use for chlorhexidine rinses in patients having mandibular third molar extractions.
Source: Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod, Vol. 99, No. 2, February 2005
