Effects of 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate and amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid on the prevention of alveolar osteitis following mandibular third molar extractions

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of a 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate and amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid combination as a prophylactic therapy for the prevention of alveolar osteitis after mandibular third molar extractions and to investigate adverse reactions to chlorhexidine.

Study design: This randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel group study was conducted in a group of 177 subjects, from which 3 groups were formed. The first group (n = 62) received 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate, the second group (n = 56) received a 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate and amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid combination, and the third group (n = 59) received 0.09% sterile saline solution. All patients were recalled for the diagnosis of alveolar osteitis on the third and seventh postoperative days.

Results: When patients in the antibiotic group were compared with those in the other 2 groups, a significant reduction in alveolar osteitis was noted (P <.05). An alteration in taste, the bad taste of the solution, and staining of dentures and oral tissues were the major complaints about chlorhexidine.

Conclusion: It would be more beneficial to use chlorhexidine solution with a beta-lactamase inhibitor-containing antibiotic to enhance its effectiveness for the prevention of alveolar osteitis.