Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of periotomes in single rooted nonsurgical tooth extractions.
Materials and methods: A double blind, randomized controlled clinical trial of 100 patients requiring nonsurgical single rooted tooth extractions was performed. The subjects were randomized into the experimental group (underwent extractions with periotome and conventional extraction forceps) or into the control group (subjects underwent extractions using periosteal elevator and conventional extraction forceps). Pain was assessed using visual analogue scale all throughout 7 days postoperatively. Gingival laceration, duration of surgery, number and frequency of analgesics consumed and complications (if present) were also noted.
Results: On inter-group comparison, all the parameters were statistically significant in control group (p < 0.05). Also on pre and post-operative inter-group comparison, statistically significant pain reduction was noted in experimental group (52.8 %) whereas pain increased in control group (65 %).
Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that use of periotome may be helpful in reducing post extraction discomfort.
Keywords: Atraumatic; Complications; Extraction; Gingival Laceration; Periotome.