Use of dexamethasone to minimise post‐operative sequelae after third molar surgery: comparison of five different routes of administration

Aim The aim of this randomised non‐blind prospective study was to compare the effect of dexamethasone sodium phosphate 4 mg in five different routes of administration on post‐operative sequelae and quality of life (QOL) measures for patients undergoing surgical removal of impacted lower third molars. Material and methods A total of 72 patients (32 males and 40 females) were included in the study and were randomly divided into six equal study groups: five treatment groups received dexamethasone 4 mg as intramuscular injection, intravenous injection, oral tablets, submucosal injection and endoalveolar powder; and control group which received no dexamethasone. Swelling, trismus and pain were evaluated at the first, third and seventh day post‐operatively. A modified questionnaire was used to measure different aspects of QOL. Results All dexamethasone groups showed statistically significant improvement in swelling and pain at all intervals (P < 0.05) and in trismus at day 1 and day 3 intervals (P < 0.05) as compared to control. QOL measures also showed significant improvement (P < 0.01). Results among treatment groups were comparable for all parameters. No relevant side effects were seen nor reported. Conclusions Local routes of dexamethasone administration showed comparable effect to systemic routes and were simple, safe, painless and cost‐effective therapeutic options.