Surgical extraction of wisdom teeth is a common dental procedure. However, managing post-operative recovery remains a challenge for many practitioners. Recent studies suggest that specific mouth rinses can significantly enhance third molar surgery healing. Therefore, clinicians are increasingly investigating the role of chlorhexidine (CHX) formulations in tissue repair. Additionally, researchers want to ensure that these treatments do not cause tooth staining. Moreover, the inclusion of hyaluronic acid (HA) might offer a synergistic effect for faster tissue closure.

During a recent single-center randomized clinical trial, researchers tested these components. Consequently, the study divided fifty-four healthy patients into three treatment groups. Specifically, these included CHX with an anti-discoloration system and hyaluronic acid (CHX+ADS+HA), CHX with ADS alone, and a placebo. Furthermore, the study evaluated wound healing at three, seven, and fourteen days post-surgery. Indeed, the investigators used the Early Healing Index (EHI) to objectively measure tissue regeneration.

Advancing Third Molar Surgery Healing Protocols

In contrast to the placebo, both chlorhexidine groups demonstrated superior healing results early in the recovery process. Thus, at the three and seven-day marks, EHI scores were significantly lower in the CHX groups. Similarly, these formulations helped maintain a cleaner surgical site. However, a distinct advantage emerged at the fourteen-day interval for the group using hyaluronic acid. Because HA promotes cell migration and stabilizes the extracellular matrix, it appears to accelerate the later stages of wound closure.

Ultimately, the trial confirms that combined rinses provide a more robust recovery profile. For instance, the addition of HA resulted in significantly better EHI scores compared to other groups by the end of the two-week period. Therefore, clinicians should consider incorporating these specialized rinses into their standard post-surgical instructions. Consequently, using these advanced formulations may improve patient comfort and overall surgical success rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Early Healing Index (EHI) in dentistry?

The Early Healing Index is a clinical tool used to assess how well a surgical wound is closing. It scores healing from 1 (complete closure) to 5 (incomplete healing with necrotic tissue).

Why is hyaluronic acid added to chlorhexidine mouthwashes?

Hyaluronic acid helps speed up tissue repair by facilitating cell movement and reducing inflammation. When combined with chlorhexidine, it provides both antimicrobial protection and enhanced healing support.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

Izzetti R et al. Early Wound Healing After Chlorhexidine Rinsing in Third Molar Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Oral Dis. 2026 Apr 08. doi: 10.1111/odi.70317. PMID: 41952046.

Graziani F et al. Early periodontal wound healing after chlorhexidine rinsing: a randomized clinical trial. Clin Oral Investig. 2024 Jun 4;28(6):354. doi: 10.1007/s00784-024-05643-0.

Casale M et al. Efficacy of Chlorhexidine after Oral Surgery Procedures on Wound Healing: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. MDPI. 2023 Oct 20. doi: 10.3390/jcm12206654.