Removal or retention of nonimpacted third molars

VernacularTitle:非阻生第三磨牙的“拔”与“留”
Author: Beimin TIAN ¹ ; Faming CHEN
Author Information

1. 第四军医大学口腔医院口腔牙周病科　口颌系统重建与再生全国重点实验室　国家口腔疾病临床医学研究中心　陕西省口腔疾病国际联合研究中心，西安710032
Keywords: Molar, third; Nonimpacted third molars; Tooth extraction; Health of adjacent teeth; Clinical decision
From: Chinese Journal of Stomatology 2023;58(8):858-863
CountryChina
Language:Chinese
Abstract: Nonimpacted third molars (N-M3s) refer to the third molars (M3s) that completely erupt and reach the occlusal plane without rotation. Although the removal of unerupted M3s in young adults is generally approved by most dentists, the decision on removal or retention of N-M3s remains challenging as a result of unawareness of the potential harm of N-M3s. Recent studies suggested that N-M3s were associated with deteriorated effects to the health of adjacent teeth, including higher risks of caries and alveolar bone resorption. Therefore, regular monitoring and early clinical decision on N-M3s are essential to reduce the risks of adverse effects on adjacent teeth. This review is structure to give a comprehensive overview of the negative impact of N-M3s to the adjacent teeth, in order to provide rational guidelines for clinical decision-making of N-M3s.