Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026
07:32
Measuring Maxillary Posterior Tooth Movement: A Model Assessment using Palatal and Dental Superimposition
Published on: February 23, 2024
How predictable is the position of third molars over time?
Ceib Phillips1, Raymond P White
1Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA. ceib_phillips@dentistry.unc.edu
Summary
Longitudinal studies show that impacted third molars rarely remain static. Changes in eruption and angulation are common over time, indicating a dynamic process for these teeth.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral Surgery
- Orthodontics
Background:
- Third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the last to erupt.
- Their eruption and position can significantly impact oral health.
- Understanding changes in their position is crucial for treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review longitudinal studies on third molar positional changes.
- To synthesize current knowledge on the dynamics of impacted third molars.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials.
- Inclusion criteria: longitudinal assessment, English language, full-text availability.
- Analysis focused on changes in eruption and angulation of third molars.
Main Results:
- Five studies met the inclusion criteria.
- Varied methodologies for assessing third molar status complicated direct comparisons.
- Key findings from each included study were reviewed.
Conclusions:
- Limited longitudinal data exist on the positional changes of impacted third molars.
- Static impacted third molars, showing no change in position or angulation, are uncommon.
- Third molar position is dynamic, necessitating ongoing monitoring.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Teeth
The formation of teeth, also known as odontogenesis, is a complex process that begins in utero, around the sixth week of embryonic development. There are three stages to this process: the bud stage, the cap stage, and the bell stage.
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin and...
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin and...
01:21Tooth Anatomy
The human tooth enables us to eat a variety of foods, speak clearly, and even aid in shaping our faces. Teeth are composed of various elements that work together. Here's a detailed look at the anatomy of a human tooth.
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or grinding food.
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or grinding food.