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Alveolar iodine tampon packing reduces postoperative morbidity after third molar surgery734complication rate. CHX is effective against both aerobic and anaerobic, and both Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms and yeasts, and oral rinsing with CHX has been shown to reduce the quantity of oral microbial populations and may be effective in reducing the incidence of AO.23,49 However, there is still considerable controversy regarding the effect of CHX on the incidence of AO. Some studies have found no beneficial effect of postoperative irrigation with saline compared to CHX, whereas other studies have reported a reduction in AO when using CHX.23,49, 50In the present study, the extraction wound was not primarily closed. The secondary closure technique allows for drainage of wound fluid and involves healing by secondary intention. Complete closure has the advantage of better control of bleeding during the postoperative period, but could lead to a greater infection rate, as a valve effect that allows food debris to enter the socket without being able to escape.51 In an earlier study, Lyall found that surgical wounds at third molar sockets were best kept open with a dressing, and that primary closure is not desirable.47 Patients were instructed to rinse the extraction socket that did not receive a tampon with a Monoject® syringe and a saline solution, starting 48 h after surgery. The patients mixed a cup of water with a teaspoon of salt and rinsed four times a day, preferably after every meal and in the evening before going to bed. In a recent randomized study, irrigation of the surgical site with tap water using a curved syringe following extraction of the third molar was demonstrated to be effective in reducing the risk of inflammatory complications.52The disadvantage of using a tampon after mandibular third molar surgery is that patients with the iodine dressing must return to the clinic for removal of the tampon. An extra visit is necessary, but many patients do appreciate the extra checkup, and the clinical benefits of the iodine tampon were obviously demonstrated in the present study. Although allergic reactions to iodine have been reported in the literature, no allergic side effects were seen in our study. Another disadvantage is that the use of the iodine tampon may delay socket healing, as packing dressings into extraction sockets may delay healing and invoke foreign body reactions.53 In the present study, the socket was only partially filled with the 2 cm tampon, which may not have had the same