Prevalence and pattern of third molars impaction: A retrospective radiographic study

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Third molar impaction is a common dental issue.
• Understanding impaction patterns is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and patterns of third molar impaction in the Karbala/Iraqi population.
• To analyze the correlation between impaction characteristics and anatomical factors.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of Orthopantomograms.
• Evaluation of angulation, impaction depth, and ramus correlation.
• Statistical analysis of prevalence and associations.

Main Results:

• Prevalence of third molar impaction was 34.71%.
• Mandibular impactions were more frequent, with specific angulations (vertical, mesioangular, horizontal, inverted) significantly associated.
• Maxillary impactions showed associations with distoangular and bucco/lingual angulations.
• Impaction levels varied: Level C in the maxilla, Levels A and B in the mandible.
• Class II impaction was the most frequent.

Conclusions:

• Third molar impaction is prevalent in the studied population, with higher occurrence in females and the mandible.
• Specific angulations and impaction levels are characteristic of maxillary versus mandibular third molar impactions.
• Findings provide valuable data for understanding and managing third molar impactions in this demographic.