Extraction of Third Molars 1 Flashcards
What age does crown calcification of third molars start at? When does it finish?
Upper- 7-9
Lower- 8-10
Finishes age 18
What age do third molars tend to erupt?
Between 18-24
When is root calcification of third molars completed?
Between 18-25
What do missing 8s on a radiograph at age 14 tend to suggest?
They will not develop
-> 25% are missing 1 third molar
-> Agenesis is more common in females
What gene is agenesis of third molars related to?
PAX9 gene
What can pain/instability under denture in edentulous patients be caused by?
Unerupted 8s
What is meant by M3M?
Mandibular third molar
What is the most common reason for failure of eruption in third molars?
Impaction
-> can be unerupted, partially erupted or fully erupted
What structures can third molars be impacted against?
Adjacent tooth, alveolar bone, surrounding mucosal soft tissue or a combination
What are the consequences of impacted third molars?
Caries- bacteria passes through communications (can pass to other teeth)
Pericoronitis- inflammation around crown
Cyst formation- failure of follicle seperation
Which nerves are at risk during third molar surgery?
Inferior Alveolar Nerve
Lingual Nerve
Nerve to Mylohyoid*
Long Buccal Nerve*
*less common
What are the features of the IAN?
Peripheral sensory nerve (mandibular division of trigeminal nerve)
Supplies all teeth on that side, lip and chin mucosa
-> Position in relationship to 3rd molar varies (but radiograph helps determine)
What does the lingual nerve supply? (CNV3)
Anterior 2/3 of dorsal and ventral surfaces of tongue
Lingual gingivae
Floor of mouth
What structures are related to lingual nerve?
lies on superior attachment of mylohyoid muscle
Close relationship to lingual plate in mandibular (medially 0-3.5mm)
Retromolar area
How can lingual nerve be avoided in third molar surgery?
No identifiable pre-op factors- can only be avoided by good surgical technique
Which clinical guidelines are available for third molar extraction?
NICE, SIGN 43, FDS
What were the main takeaways from the updated FDS guidelines in 2020?
3rd molars can be removed:
If there is pathology (caries, perio, infection, cysts)
If not removing impacted molars is delaying inevitable surgery and can make surgery more difficult
-> Change from therapeutic approach to more holistic and patient lead approach
What are the therapeutic indications for extraction of third molars?
Infection (caries, pericoronitis, periodontal disease or local bone infection) – most common
Cysts
Tumours
External resorption of 7 or 8