Patient preference for the management of mandibular third molars with mesio-angular and horizontal impactions

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Mesio-angular and horizontal mandibular third molars (M3Ms) pose a risk for dental diseases, especially impacting mandibular second molars (M2Ms).
• Understanding patient perspectives on managing asymptomatic M3Ms is essential for effective treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate patient knowledge, views, and opinions regarding the management of disease-free horizontal and mesio-angular mandibular third molars.

Main Methods:

• A structured survey was administered to adult patients with at least one horizontal or mesio-angular M3M adjacent to an M2M at an oral and maxillofacial surgery clinic.
• 400 patient responses were analyzed to determine treatment preferences.

Main Results:

• 64% of respondents would opt for prophylactic removal of asymptomatic impacted M3Ms.
• Patients with prior symptoms were more likely to choose prophylactic removal (73.8%) than those without symptoms (39.1%).
• Disease progression and patient age significantly influenced the preference for surgical intervention.

Conclusions:

• Patient treatment preferences for M3Ms are largely determined by symptoms, age, and past disease experiences.
• These findings underscore the importance of thorough discussion and shared decision-making during the informed consent process for M3M management.