Comparative Efficacy of Amoxicillin, Metronidazole, and Chlorhexidine in Preventing Alveolar Osteitis

This study will compare the effectiveness of amoxicillin, metronidazole, and chlorhexidine in preventing alveolar osteitis (dry socket) following lower third molar extraction. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: amoxicillin, metronidazole, or chlorhexidine. Participants will be assessed on Days 3 and 7 after extraction for the presence or absence of alveolar osteitis and postoperative pain. The study will determine whether there is a difference in the incidence of alveolar osteitis among the three treatment groups.

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged 18 to 40 years. * Patients requiring non-surgical extraction of impacted or partially erupted mandibular third molars under local anesthesia. * Patients classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status I or II. * Patients who provide written informed consent to participate in the study. Exclusion Criteria: * Known allergy or drug hypersensitivity reaction to amoxicillin or metronidazole. * Patients presenting with active infection at the extraction site, evidenced by pus discharge. * Periodontally compromised (Grade 1) tooth.