Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 23, 2026

07:32
Measuring Maxillary Posterior Tooth Movement: A Model Assessment using Palatal and Dental Superimposition
Published on: February 23, 2024
Association between mandibular third molar impaction pattern and mandibular crowding severity: a retrospective
Yuting Wang1,2,3, Linlin Zhu1,3,4, Lin Wang1,3,5
1State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Research, Prevention and Treatment for Oral Diseases Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu, China.
American Journal of Translational Research
|May 22, 2026
Summary
Mandibular third molar (M3M) impaction significantly worsens mandibular crowding. Specific impaction types and radiographic measurements are key risk factors for severe crowding, offering clinical guidance.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Mandibular third molar (M3M) impaction is a common dental issue.
- Understanding its relationship with mandibular crowding is crucial for treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the association between M3M impaction characteristics and mandibular crowding.
- To identify radiographic indicators predictive of severe mandibular crowding.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 320 patients with impacted M3Ms.
- Measured variables included mandibular full dentition crowding (MFDC), retromolar space (RSM), impaction angle (IAM3M), and others.
- Statistical analyses included correlation, regression, and ROC analysis.
Main Results:
- Mesial and horizontal impactions were most frequent and strongly associated with severe crowding.
- Increased impaction angle (IAM3M) and decreased retromolar space (RSM) were significant risk factors.
- IAM3M and RSM showed good predictive value for severe crowding.
Conclusions:
- M3M impaction is a significant contributing factor to mandibular crowding.
- Radiographic parameters like IAM3M and RSM can help predict severe crowding, aiding clinical decision-making.