[Application of low intensity ultrasound in the extraction of totally impacted mandibular third molars].

Purpose: To observe the clinical effects of low intensity ultrasound in extraction of totally impacted third molars.

Methods: 40 patients with totally impacted third molars on both sides of the mandible verified by X-ray were selected. After extraction of the teeth, the socket on one side was treated with low intensity ultrasound while the other side underwent no treatment. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 10.0 on all patients in form of pain, swelling, dry socket and bone healing.

Results: In the experimental group, 4 patients complained of severe pain while 16 patients in the control group (P < 0.05). Moderate or severe swelling were not uncommon in both experimental and control groups (P > 0.05); No patients suffered from dry socket in the experimental group and 4 patients suffered from dry socket in the control group (P < 0.05); There were 35 patients with complete bone healing in the experimental group while 21 patients with complete bone healing in the control group (P < 0.01).

Conclusions: The use of low intensity ultrasound in extraction of totally impacted mandibular third molars reduced the severity of post-operative pain and the incidence dry socket, and it also stimulated bone healing, but it showed no effect on relieving post-operative swelling.