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Third molars and incisor crowding: when removal is unwarranted
1Department of Orthodontics, University of Iowa College of Dentistry, Iowa City 52242.
Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Extracting unerupted mandibular third molars does not measurably reduce interdental force or prevent lower incisor crowding. Therefore, routine extraction solely for preventing incisor crowding is not supported by evidence.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Oral Surgery
Background:
- The prophylactic extraction of impacted mandibular third molars is common practice.
- A prevailing belief suggests that these molars exert pressure, leading to mandibular incisor crowding.
- This belief has driven extractions aimed at preventing or alleviating malocclusion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of unerupted mandibular third molar extraction on interdental force.
- To determine if extracting these molars prevents or reduces mandibular incisor crowding.
Main Methods:
- The study analyzed evidence regarding the relationship between mandibular third molar extraction and changes in interdental forces.
- It assessed the effect of extraction on the alignment of mandibular incisors.
Main Results:
- Extraction of unerupted mandibular third molars did not result in a measurable decrease in interdental force.
- Evidence does not support the claim that removing these molars prevents mandibular incisor crowding.
Conclusions:
- Extraction of unerupted mandibular third molars is not indicated solely for the purpose of preventing interdental pressure or incisor crowding.
- While valid reasons for third molar extraction exist, this specific rationale is unsupported.