A retrospective cohort study on reasons to retain third molars

The primary goal of this study was to identify and quantify indications for retaining third molars. This retrospective cohort study included 1682 patients (818 male, 864 female; mean age 31 years) who were referred to the University Hospitals Leuven for third molar removal. Eight reasons for retaining the third molars were identified: (1) risk of damaging adjacent structures, (2) compromised health status, (3) adequate space for eruption, (4) third molar serves as abutment tooth, (5) orthodontic reasons, (6) eruption into proper occlusion, (7) symptomless third molars in patients>30 years old, and (8) patient preference.

Source: International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - November 5, 2019 Category: ENT & OMF Authors: Lieselotte De Bruyn, Myrthel Vranckx, Reinhilde Jacobs, Constantinus Politis Tags: Clinical Paper Source Type: research