Trapezoidal Flap vs. Envelope Flap in Mandibular Third Molar Extraction.

Trapezoidal Flap Versus Envelope Flap in Impacted Mandibular Third Molar Extraction

the purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness of the envelope flap compared to trapezoidal flap in impacted mandibular third molar extractions.

a sample of 50 patients requiring mandibular third molar extraction was selected for the study. Healthy patients with mild symptoms of pericoronitis affecting at least 1 mandibular third molar were included in the study. A total number of 52 consecutive cases of mandibular third molar surgical extractions were performed using either a trapezoidal flap or an envelope flap. The choice of the flap was randomized. The following parameters were recorded: Probing Pocket Depth, Clinical Attachment Level, Bleeding on Probing, Full Mouth Plaque Score, Full Mouth Bleeding Score, total time for the surgical intervention, age of the patient, type of inclusion, ostectomy. All the patients received a questionnaire to evaluate the post-intervention discomfort (swelling, pain, number of pain-killers, bleeding). Periodontal parameters were checked at 6-month follow up.

Inclusion Criteria:

• third molar impaction
• mild symptoms of pericoronitis

Exclusion Criteria:

• systemic diseases
• cigarettes smoking
• history of irradiation therapy