Extraction of third molars in cases of anticipated crowding in the lower jaw

The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether the lower third molar, in combination with other variables such as facial morphology and space conditions, can contribute to the occurrence or aggravation of crowding. The subjects consisted of twenty-three boys and twenty-nine girls with impacted third molars on both sides of the mandible. The impacted molar on one side was removed, while the other, nonextracted side was used as a control. Average age at the time of operation was 15.5 years (range, 13 to 19). Close to the operation and annually for at least 3 years afterward, study casts and cephalograms (lateral, frontal, and oblique) were taken. The findings indicated that (1) despite analyses of many variables, this study has not been able to predict which patients should react favorably or unfavorably to removal of the third lower molars in cases of anticipated crowding; (2) in cases with severe crowding removal of the molars could be recommended; (3) correct proximal contacts seem to be of importance in keeping the space that is achieved by extraction, while incorrect ones may spoil it.