Evaluation of topical viscous 2% lidocaine jelly as an adjunct during the management of alveolar osteitis

Abstract

Purpose: This study evaluated the efficacy of topical viscous 2% lidocaine jelly for the alleviation of pain experienced during the instrumentation of mandibular third molar extraction sites diagnosed with alveolar osteitis and for pain relief during the postinstrumentation period.

Patients and methods: Thirty adult patients with a diagnosis of alveolar osteitis in a mandibular third molar extraction site were included in this prospective, double-blind study. Each patient had their sutures removed, the socket irrigated, and 2% lidocaine jelly placed on the tip and side of the tongue to blind the patient against the test substances. The subjects were then randomly distributed into two groups. Group 1 had a nonactive jelly base placed into the socket 2 minutes prior to the placement of a standard obtundant dressing. Group 2 had viscous 2% lidocaine jelly placed into the socket in the same manner. Patients subjectively quantified their pain intensity pretreatment, during instrumentation, immediately postmanipulation, at 5-minute intervals to 30 minutes, and at 45 and 60 minutes. They also subjectively quantified their pain relief at each of the time intervals following instrumentation.

Results: There was no statistical difference between the pretreatment pain experienced by both groups. The use of 2% lidocaine jelly had a measurable (P = .056), but not statistically significant, effect on pain due to instrumentation. At every time interval thereafter, the use of 2% lidocaine jelly elicited a statistically significant (P < .05) decrease in pain perception, and a statistically significant increase in pain relief when compared with the inactive jelly.

Conclusion: Topical viscous 2% lidocaine jelly is a useful adjunct during the treatment of alveolar osteitis, especially in the early (< or = 60 minutes) postinstrumentation period.