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Is third molar development affected by third molar impaction or impaction-related parameters?

Journal Contribution - Journal Article

Objective: To evaluate the effect of third molar impaction and impaction-related parameters on third molar development. Materials and Methods: Panoramic radiographs (N=3972) from 473 males and 558 females between 3.2 and 23.5 years old were analysed. Three parameters of impaction were examined: hindering contact between third and adjacent second molar, retromolar space availability (only in lower third molars), and angulation between the third and adjacent second molar. From the separate parameters, a definition for impaction was derived. Third molars’ development was staged according to a modified Köhler et al. staging technique. A linear model was used to compare within-stage and overall age, as a function of hindering contact, retromolar space, and impaction. Furthermore, a quadratic function was used to study the relation of age and angulation. Results: Significant differences were found in mean age as a function of hindering contact and retromolar space, depending on third molar location and on stage. There was a significant relation between angulation and age, depending on stage, with all third molars evolving to a more upright position (closer to 0°). Mean ages of subjects with impacted third molars were significantly lower in certain third molar stages, but the differences were clinically small (absolute differences ≤0.65 years). Moreover, after correction for stage differences, no significant differences in age could be demonstrated. Conclusions: The development of impacted and non-impacted third molars can be considered clinically equal in our study population. Clinical Relevance: There is no distinction required between impacted and non-impacted third molars for dental age estimation.
Journal: CLINICAL ORAL INVESTIGATIONS
ISSN: 1432-6981
Issue: 12
Volume: 25
Pages: 6681 - 6693
Publication year:2021
BOF-keylabel:yes
IOF-keylabel:yes
BOF-publication weight:1
CSS-citation score:2
Authors:International
Authors from:Higher Education
Accessibility:Open