Lower Third Molar Coronectomy: What Do We Know So Far?

AbstractCoronectomy is a treatment option for lower third molars with high risk of inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injury. When it was first described, clinicians were skeptical of this new technique and were concerned about complications such as infection or pathological changes. Over the years, coronectomy has been proven to be effective in preventing IAN injury for high risk cases and is a safe technique in the long term. The other surgical morbidities of lower third molar coronectomy such as infection, pain and swelling are minimal, and occur at incidences similar to those of the conventional total removal of lower third molars. There is a small chance of root exposure which may require a second operation for its removal. It was found that most of the retained roots would migrate to a small extent, and that the migration rate would decrease with time and gradually cease, causing the root complex to remain embedded in the alveolar bone. Coronectomy has also been suggested as a treatment option for dentigerous cyst when the root of the involved tooth is in close proximity to the IAN. The benefit of adjacent second molar bone regeneration after third molar coronectomy has been demonstrated in pilot studies. With current evidence, coronectomy of lower third molar is a safe alternative for the prevention of IAN injury.

Source: Oral Surgery - December 6, 2021 Category: ENT & OMF Authors: Si Ling Pang, Yiu Yan Leung Tags: REVIEW Source Type: research