Clinical outcome of third molars in adults followed during 18 years

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to follow the clinical changes in third molar status during an 18-year period in patients aged 20 to 38 years.

Patients and methods: The series consisted of 118 subjects (37 men and 81 women). In the beginning of the study, the mean age was 20.2 years (SD, +/-0.6 year), and at the end, it was 38.6 years (SD, +/-0.6 year). Panoramic radiographs were taken at baseline and at age 38. All of the subjects were clinically examined at baseline and at the end of the study. A portion of the subjects (n = 69) were also examined at age 32.

Results: Most of the initially unerupted third molars were removed during the follow-up period (73%, maxilla and mandible together). More than half of the initially partially erupted third molars were removed during the follow-up period (64%, maxilla and mandible together). The percentage of erupted third molars found in the mouth at age 38 increased significantly depending on the initial status. Of the initially unerupted, partially erupted, or erupted third molars, 10%, 33%, and 50%, respectively, were erupted at age 38 (maxilla and mandible together). Changes in the status of third molars continued from age 32 to age 38, although to a lesser extent (8%). The 3 third molars with advanced eruption were all maxillary teeth in men.

Conclusion: Third molars undergo continuous clinical change on a reduced scale at least up to the age of 38 years.