Postoperative Pain Trajectories After Common Dentoalveolar Surgical Procedures in Routine Clinical Practice: A Prospective Observational Study
J. Schortinghuis, D. S. Hamer, T. F. Putters, A. VissinkABSTRACT
Introduction
Postoperative pain is a common concern following dentoalveolar surgical procedures and may influence recovery and patient satisfaction. This prospective observational study described postoperative pain trajectories after lower third molar removal, apicoectomy and dental implant placement in routine clinical practice.
Methods
A total of 136 patients (third molar n = 43; apicoectomy n = 49; implant n = 44) recorded daily pain scores using an 11‐point Numeric Rating Scale (NRS; 0–10) during the first postoperative week.
Results
Postoperative pain intensity differed across procedures and peaked on the first postoperative day in all groups before declining thereafter. Surgical removal of lower third molars and higher body mass index were associated with higher postoperative pain. In the apicoectomy group, preoperative pain predicted increased postoperative pain. No significant predictors were identified for implant placement.
Conclusion
Although the procedures differ in indication and patient characteristics, the descriptive patterns provide clinically relevant context regarding postoperative pain intensity and duration in routine oral surgical care. These findings may support preoperative counselling and expectation management for patients undergoing common dentoalveolar surgical procedures.