Accuracy of radiographs in classification of impacted third molar teeth

The accuracy of using panoramic radiographs as the basis for classification of impacted third molars and subsequent fee reimbursement by third party carriers was evaluated. Radiographs showing 20 impacted third molar teeth were classified independently by 40 oral and maxillofacial surgeons, 10 general dentists, and 11 health insurance consultants. No group had an accuracy rate better than approximately 50%. These findings demonstrate the unreliability of radiographs for classification of impacted teeth, irrespective of the training or experience of the evaluator.