Early extraction of the mandibular third molar in case of eruption disturbances of the second molar

Abstract

Purpose: General consensus has been reached on extracting mandibular third molars when they are involved in pathologic processes. However, early extraction is advisable in cases of eruption disturbances of the mandibular second molar, before or during orthodontic treatment.

Methods: Thirty-two patients with early extraction of the mandibular third molar before or during orthodontic treatment were examined.

Results: In these cases either the presence of the third molar presented an obstacle in the eruption path of the second, or third molar germ removal was considered beneficial to the course of orthodontic treatment.

Conclusions: Early extraction of the mandibular third molar facilitates the eruption of the second molar, especially in cases where evidence of crowding and lack of space in the posterior mandibular region exist. Orthodontic treatment may, in some cases, aggravate eruption disturbances of the second molar.