Are third molars associated with orofacial pain? Findings from the SHIP study

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Pain Medicine

Background:

• Orofacial pain is a common condition with multifactorial causes.
• Third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the last teeth to erupt and are often associated with various dental issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between the status of third molars (eruption vs. impaction) and the prevalence of orofacial pain.
• To test the hypothesis that impacted third molars contribute to orofacial pain.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of magnetic resonance images from 1808 participants to classify third molar status using the Pell and Gregory classification.
• Utilized self-reported questionnaires and clinical dental examinations to identify chronic and acute orofacial pain, masticatory muscle pain, migraine, and other headaches.
• Employed logistic regression models to determine the statistical association between third molar status and orofacial pain.

Main Results:

• Individuals with impacted maxillary third molars showed a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing chronic orofacial pain compared to those with erupted third molars (OR 2.19; 95% CI 1.19-4.02).
• No significant association was found between third molar status and orofacial pain in the lower jaw.
• Third molars were not found to be associated with masticatory muscle pain, migraine, or other types of headache.

Conclusions:

• Impacted third molars in the maxilla may serve as a contributing factor to chronic orofacial pain.
• Healthcare providers should evaluate the eruption and impaction status of third molars in patients presenting with orofacial pain.