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Aim: Our previous study proposed a technique of inserting gauze coated with oxytetracycline–hydrocortisone ointment into the extraction socket that suppressed the occurrence of dry socket and post‐extraction pain compared with the gauze‐free group. In this study, we estimated the incidence of dry socket and post‐extraction infection in patients with ointment gauze insertion and identified predictors of post‐extraction pain and change in maximum opening volume. Methods: This retrospective study was carried out on patients who underwent lower third molar extraction in the Department of Oral Surgery at a general hospital in Japan. Results: The incidence of dry socket and infection after tooth extraction was 1.05% and 0.35%. The mean visual analog scale (VAS) on the operative day was 4.15; the VAS for postoperative day (POD)1 and POD7 were 2.28 and 0.55, respectively. The percentage change in maximum mouth opening on POD1 was −9.88%, and that on POD7 was −1.51%. Multivariable analysis indicated that age and Winter position classification were predictors of POD1 VAS, and female sex, smoking, and Winter position classification were predictors of POD7 VAS. Winter position classification and preoperative maximum mouth opening, respectively, were identified as predictors of maximum mouth opening percent change on POD1 and POD7. Conclusions: The insertion of gauze coated with oxytetracycline–hydrocortisone ointment into the extraction socket of the mandibular third molar showed a low incidence of dry socket and post‐extraction infection. Moreover, the Winter position classification was suggested to be an independent predictor of postoperative pain and the maximum mouth opening percent change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]