This study evaluates the effectiveness of kinesio taping in reducing swelling, pain, and trismus complications after wisdom tooth extraction surgery. Patients undergoing bilateral symmetrical extraction of mandibular third molars, Kinesio tape was applied on the study side and placebo tape on the control side. Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), swelling was measured using predefined facial landmarks, and mouth opening was recorded using interincisal distance measurements. Data were collected preoperatively (T0) and on the 1st (T1), 2nd (T2), and 3rd (T3) postoperative days.

Introduction: Complications following third molar surgery can affect patients' quality of life. Kinesio taping is a simple, non-invasive method with a clear mechanism of action in fluid drainage, one of the strategies for symptom reduction in wisdom tooth extraction surgery. This study evaluates the effectiveness of kinesio taping in reducing swelling, pain, and trismus complications after wisdom tooth extraction surgery.

Methods: A split-mouth, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 17 patients indicated bilateral mandibular third molar extraction. Each patient had Kinesio tape applied to one surgical site and a placebo tape to the contralateral side. Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), swelling was measured using predefined facial landmarks, and mouth opening was recorded using interincisal distance measurements. Data were collected preoperatively (T0) and on the 1st (T1), 2nd (T2), and 3rd (T3) postoperative days.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients have bilaterally impacted mandibular third molars that are relatively symmetrical and have the same difficulty according to Pell and Gregory's classification, with an angulation difference between the two teeth not exceeding 15°. The angulation of each third molar is measured on a panoramic X-ray as the angle formed between the long axis of the third molar and the adjacent second molar.
• Patients do not have preoperative symptoms of swelling or pain.
• Patients agree to participate in the study after receiving a clear explanation and counseling.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with systemic conditions contraindicating tooth extraction surgery.