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Periodontal pathology associated with asymptomatic third molars
George H Blakey1, Robert D Marciani, Richard H Haug
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7450, USA. george_blakey@dentistry.unc.edu
Summary
Asymptomatic third molars are unexpectedly linked to significant periodontal disease in 25% of patients. This prevalence of periodontal probing depth (PD) exceeding 5 mm highlights a critical need for monitoring third molar region health.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Periodontology
- Oral Health Research
Background:
- Asymptomatic third molars are often monitored for potential complications.
- Periodontal probing depth (PD) is a key indicator of periodontitis extent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of periodontal probing depth (PD) associated with asymptomatic third molars.
- To assess periodontitis extent in the third molar region during initial examinations.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal clinical trial enrolled 329 healthy patients over 30 months.
- Full mouth periodontal probing and radiographic assessments were performed.
- Alveolar bone levels and third molar eruption/angulation were analyzed.
Main Results:
- 25% of patients (82/329) had PD ≥ 5 mm in the third molar region.
- PD ≥ 5 mm correlated with periodontal attachment loss (≥ 1 mm).
- Older patients (>25 years) and mandibular molars showed higher PD prevalence.
Conclusions:
- A significant percentage (25%) of patients with asymptomatic third molars exhibit considerable periodontal pathology.
- This prevalence is higher than anticipated based on national surveys for younger populations.
- Findings underscore the importance of evaluating the third molar region for periodontal health.