Comparison of Different Flap Designs in the Removal of Impacted Third Molars

Aim: The aim of the study is to compare the different flaps and incisions that can be employed for the surgical removal of impacted third molars and its influence on the post-operative healing and complications associated with the same. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 100 patients diagnosed with mesioangularly impacted third mandibular molar and needed extraction of the tooth. The patients were divided into five groups randomly and five different incisions were placed in these patients for the extraction of the third molars. The parameters assessed were post-operative pain, swelling, trismus, distal pocket formation and gingival recession. Results: The influence of all the flaps on the post-operative healing was satisfactory and favourable. No significant disparity was noted amongst the various flap designs. Conclusion: It can, thus, be deduced that the choice of incision and flap depends mainly on the surgeon and the amount of exposure required for the exposure of the impacted third molar.