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Accidental Displacement of Third Molar: A Systematic Review
Pablo Crespo Reinoso1, Natasha Cárdenas1, Ana Caivinagua1
1Faculty of Dentistry, University of Cuenca, Avenida del Paraiso, 010101 Cuenca - Azuay, Ecuador.
Journal of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery
|December 2, 2024
Summary
Third molar displacement is a rare surgical complication. The infratemporal fossa and submandibular space are common sites for displaced third molars, with women affected more frequently.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Dental Implantology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Third molar displacement (TM) is an infrequent complication during surgical procedures.
- This complication can involve entire teeth or root fragments in both the maxilla and mandible.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a systematic review of published literature on third molar displacement.
- Analyze predisposing factors, causes, symptoms, and treatments for this complication.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of articles focusing on third molar displacement into various anatomical spaces.
- Exclusion of studies on other teeth, surgical instruments, or materials displacement.
Main Results:
- Fifty articles met the inclusion criteria.
- The most common displacement sites are the infratemporal fossa (maxilla) and submandibular space (mandible).
- Incidence is higher in women (2:1 ratio) compared to men.
Conclusions:
- Assessment of risk/benefit for immediate or delayed extraction is crucial.
- Asymptomatic cases with risk to vital structures may be monitored.
- Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is the preferred method for preoperative localization.
