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Published on: March 29, 2018
The genetic basis of tooth impaction: a systematic review
S Papadopoulos1, I Ziakas1, E Panteris2
1Faculty of Dentistry, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
Objectives:
The aim of this review was to identify genes and genetic traits that cause tooth impaction by systematically collecting the best available evidence.
Materials And Methods:
Relevant literature was searched on 10 databases up to March 2025 and search criteria were formulated using the PECOS and PRISMA guidelines. The eligibility criteria included case-control, cohort and cross-sectional observational studies, which examined human subjects regardless of age or sex and focused on the analysis of genes, alleles, gene variants, non-coding RNAs, or other genetic factors that cause tooth impaction. The risk of bias of eligible studies was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklists.
Results:
Overall, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. Several important genes were highlighted and mutations and polymorphism in these genes showed an increase in the risk of tooth impaction. Specifically, MSX1 rs12532, PAX9 rs4904210 and rs2073247, AXIN2 rs2240308, as well as MSX2 rs4868444 and ARNT2 rs140220410 revealed significant association with canine, third molar or general tooth impaction. Synergistic effects of some gene genotypes were also addressed. The third molar impaction was associated with specific long non-coding RNAs of the corresponding dental follicles, and with the individual's blood group. According to the JBI checklist, the studies showed high methodological quality.
Conclusion:
Three key genes, namely MSX1, PAX9 and AXIN2, appear to have an important role in tooth impaction. Moreover, limited evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs and the type of individual's blood group could be potential biomarkers of tooth impaction. However, the contradictory results from the included studies reduce the certainty of any solid conclusions. Additional studies with large samples involving advanced methodologies for genetic testing are essential to pinpoint the underlying genetic factors of tooth impaction.
Clinical Relevance:
Understanding the genetic factors and specific mutations behind tooth impaction, may enhance early diagnosis, prevention of impaction and treatment.
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