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Third molar extraction. Current trends
D Pasqualini1, F Erniani, D Coscia
1Oral Surgery I, Dentistry Department, San Giovanni Battista Hospital, Turin, Italy. dampasq@libero.it
Minerva Stomatologica
|January 28, 2003
Summary
Extraction of third molars is common, but guidelines are evolving. Recent data suggests a more conservative approach to third molar removal is now favored over aggressive extraction policies.
Area of Science:
- Oral Surgery
- Evidence-Based Dentistry
Background:
- Third molar extraction is a frequent oral and maxillofacial surgery procedure.
- Consensus conferences by NIH and AAOMS have established guidelines for third molar management.
- Controversies persist regarding preventive extraction, early extraction, prognosis, follow-up, and associations with crowding and TMD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review conclusions from third molar consensus conferences.
- To integrate recent scientific data with existing guidelines.
- To analyze the current trend in third molar management.
Main Methods:
- Systematic analysis of scientific evidence from consensus conferences.
- Integration of recent research data.
- Review of clinical aspects and controversies.
Main Results:
- Established guidelines exist for third molar management.
- Several clinical aspects remain subjects of debate.
- Recent data supports a shift towards conservative management.
Conclusions:
- The current trend favors a conservative clinical approach for third molars.
- Aggressive extraction policies may be less indicated.
- Further research may clarify controversial aspects.