Abstract
Objective: To assess the efficacy of ascorbic acid in wound healing after third molar surgery.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry, Rawalpindi, from January to March 2023. Sixty participants requiring surgical removal of impacted third molar were included in the study via non-probability purposive sampling. The sample was equally into two groups comprising 30 participants in each group. Group A was given amoxicillin with clavulanic acid 625 mg thrice daily and metronidazole 400 mg twice daily and this was considered as control group. Group B was given amoxicillin with clavulanic acid 625 mg thrice daily, ascorbic acid 500 mg thrice daily and metronidazole 400 mg twice daily and this was considered as test group. Both groups received naproxen sodium 550 mg as per requirement. Wound dehiscence, dry socket and soft tissue healing were assessed by Laundry index on the 7th post-operative day.
Results: Dry socket and wound dehiscence were noted in one patient in test group, while in control group 6 patients had dry socket and wound dehiscence. There was a statistically significant difference in incidence of dry socket and wound dehiscence between the two groups (p<0.05). Soft tissue healing, evaluated with Laundry index, was better with test group as compared to control (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Regular intake of ascorbic acid 500 mg thrice improved wound healing in patients with post-surgical third molar surgery.

Key words: Third molar surgery, wound healing, Laundry Index, ascorbic acid.