Revista de higiene y salud bucal

Abstracto

Indications for removal of impacted mandibular third molars: a single institutional experience in Libya

H.A. Orafi , R. Elgehani , S. Krishnan

Aim- To investigate the various indications for the removal of impacted lower third molars in Libya. Methods: The records of all patients who underwent a surgical removal of a lower third molar over a 3 year period were reviewed retrospectively. The indications for removal were classified into 10 groups. Radiographs were also studied to determine angular position as well as pathologies associated with such teeth. Age, gender and chief complaint were recorded. Results: The results were based on the data of 439 patients who had their molars removed (Male-183: Female-256). 61% of patients were in the age groups 15-24. Recurrent pericoronitis was the most common indication recorded (54%), followed by pulpitis/caries of the 3rd/2nd molar (31%). Orthodontic reasons (2%) and cysts/tumors (5%) . Pain and tenderness was recorded as the most common symptom. The relative absence of prophylactic removal as an indication could be attributed to socioeconomic and logistic reasons.