Effect of two triangular flap designs for removal of impacted third molar on maximal mouth opening

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of marginal flap and paramarginal flap designs on maximum mouth opening following surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars. This comparative study consisted of sixty patients which were divided into two groups of thirty each and was carried out at Oral and Maxillofacial Department, Lahore Medical and Dental College, Lahore from June 2012 to October 2013. Maximum mouth opening was recorded preoperatively. A marginal flap was used in one randomly chosen half of the patient's sample, and a paramarginal flap was used in the other half. The effect of these flaps on maximum mouth opening was studied postoperatively. No significant difference was found between marginal and paramarginal flaps on maximum mouth opening at second and seventh days after surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molar [P>0.05]. Therefore, the decision to use a marginal flap or a paramarginal flap may be based on surgeon's preference