PREVALENCE OF IMPACTED MANDIBULAR THIRD MOLARS AND ITS INFLUENCE ON SECOND MOLARS: A RADIOGRAPHIC STUDY IN THREE DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS.

Abstract

Abstract:

Introduction: Impacted third molars are the most frequently impacted teeth in humans and can predispose the adjacent second molar to an array of detrimental effects such as caries.

Aim: The aim of the present study is to determine the prevalence of impacted mandibular third molars and to evaluate the decay on the second molar as an effect of an impacted third molar in three different age groups.

Objectives: The present study evaluates 1. Prevalence and determines the decay on the second molar as an effect of an impacted mandibular third molars in three different age groups. 2. Awareness among the patients about mandibular third molar impaction and its treatment.

Materials and methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kamineni Institute of Dental Sciences, Sreepuram, Narketpally, Nalgonda, Telangana. A total of 150 Radiographs records has been  assessed. Based on the age groups, 150 radiographs has been divided in to 3 groups.

             Group A: Age:  21-25yrs (50 radiographs)

             Group B: Age:  26-30yrs (50 radiographs)

             Group C: Age:  31-35yrs (50 radiographs)

Results: The present study reveals that mesioangular impactions were the most prevalent type of impaction, followed by horizontal, vertical and distoangular impactions. In Age groups 21-25yrs and 31-35 yrs horizontal third molar impaction shows highest effect on adjacent second molar. Out of 150 patients, 87 (58%) shows grossly decayed second molar because of effect of impacted mandibular third molars and remaining 58 (39%) patients were asymptomatic and unaware of existing condition and pathology of adjacent second molar.

Conclusion: Impacted mandibular third molars are associated with complications that are manifested on the adjacent second molars. In this present study about 58% shows decay on the second molar as an effect of an impacted mandibular third molars and remaining 39% were  unaware of existing condition of second molars ,if untreated it may lead to severe destruction of the tooth.

Keywords: Impacted mandibular third molars, Decay, Awareness.