Third molar impaction is one of the most studied topics in oral and maxillofacial surgery, with hundreds of research papers published annually. These studies aim to optimize surgical techniques, reduce complications, and improve postoperative outcomes. Despite this wealth of research, postoperative care for patients undergoing third molar extractions continues to present challenges. This article explores the reasons behind this conundrum, focusing on biological variability, procedural complexity, limitations in translating research into practice, and the multifaceted nature of patient care.
Keywords: Third molar surgery, Impaction, Post-operative care