Surgical and post-surgical variables
Nerve block, swelling, tooth
ALLERGY TO PENICILLIN
Preoperatively, all patients underwent three-dimensional facial scanning (Fig. Scan T0Three-dimensional images were captured by the Bellus 3D Dental Pro app.The first extraction of the included lower third molar was performed.Each of the two extractions was conducted using standardized procedures. Nerve block of the inferior alveolar and buccal nerve with mepivacaine hydrochloride 3% with adrenaline 1:100,000 was performed. A full-thickness envelope flap with a vertical releasing incision was reflected, and osteotomy were subsequently performed (Fig. Sample of the surgery of symmetrical inferior impacted third molarsBoth the side of the surgery and the technique to be used were decided at random. The osteotomy was performed on one side with piezoelectric instrumentation and the other side with rotary instrumentation.When necessary, tooth sectioning was performed with a high-speed tungsten carbide slit drill under saline irrigation and the tooth removed in single or multiple segments.The mucoperiosteal flap was repositioned and the surgical wound was closed with a 5–0.After surgery, the pharmacological therapy was prescribed to each patient for each intervention (Amoxicillin 1gr cpr with posology 1 cpr every 12 h for 6 days; in case of allergy to penicillins, clarithromycin 500 mg with posology 1 cpr every 12 h for 6 days was prescribed; chlorhexidine mouthwash at 0.20% to be used three times a day for 10 days after surgery, to reduce the bacterial load). The patient received all indications regarding postoperative management.Three days after each of the two surgeries, the second 3D scan of the face (T1) was performed to assess facial swelling (Fig. Scan T1(P-R)Scans (T2) were performed at 7 days after each surgery (Fig. Scan T2(P-R)