Comparing of two different designs of mouth prop in surgical removal of third molar – a clinical study

Introduction: Universal moth prop: A mouth prop (also bite block) is a wedge-shaped implement used in dentistry for dentists working with children and other patients who have difficulty keeping their mouths open wide and steady during a procedure or during procedures where the patient is sedated. It has a rubber-like texture and is typically made from thermoplastic material. They come in several different sizes, from pediatric to adult, and are typically ridged as to use the back teeth to hold them in place. Newly designed mouth prop (pillar): This design allows the assistant to have a clear view of the treatment. Since it is sleek the patient won’t have a gag reflex. The height adjusting mechanism in treatment under general anesthesia, Where the patient is not in consciousness to open his mouth while changing the sizes. In between the treatment, if the patient complains the size of the prop is too huge it can be adjusted straight away, unlike the conventional ones where we have to keep changing the props until we get the right size. Materials and Method: 20 patients are included in this study, 10 patients in each group. Randomization was done by tossing of coin. Group A universal mouth prop and Group B newly designed mouth prop “Pillar”. Inclusion criteria patients need surgical removal of lower third molar. Exclusion criteria patients had restricted mouth opening. Measuring parameters are patient’s comfort, operator’s ease and assistant’s work efficiency. Result: The mean age group was range from 20- 28 years. Male and female ratio was 11:9. there was no patient discomfort, Operator's ease in favor of newer design, and Assistant's work efficiency also increased while using newer design.