Chlorhexidine mouthwash and augmentin to prevent Alveolar Osteitis after removal of mandibular third molar: a three-arm placebo- controlled randomized clinical trial

Background: Alveolar Osteitis (AO) is a complicated problem that particularly occurs following the surgical removal of teeth resulting in severe pain and repeated practice/hospital visits. Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the role of postoperative Chlorhexidine (CHX) plus Augmentin in preventing Alveolar Osteitis AO after mandibular third molars removal. Methods: A total of 191 patients were randomly allocated to the CHX group (66 patients) or CHX and Augmentin group (63 patients) and Placebo group (62 patients). One mandibular third molar was removed in one session where surgical standard procedure was followed. All patients were prescribed rescue medication for postoperative pain relief. A postoperative follow up examination was performed on the third and seventh day to evaluate the existing cases of AO. Results: Group 2 (CHX and Augmentin) showed a significant reduction in AO (P < 0.05) when compared with group 1 (CHX) and group 3 (placebo). Patients have reported CHX side effects like taste alteration, bad taste, and staining. Conclusion: The combination of CHX plus Augmentin may be useful in reducing the incidence of AO following mandibular third molars extraction.