Journal of IMAB (Mar 2017)
X-RAY MEASUREMENTS OF IMPACTED MANDIBULAR THIRD MOLARS
Abstract
The X-ray diagnostics is essential in case of retention of teeth. An important condition for proper treatment plan for impacted third molars of the mandible is the determination of the type of retention in the jaw in accordance with their medio-distal inclination and the space available for eruption (retromolar space). Purpose: The purpose of this article is to present an objective method for determination of the medio-distal inclination and the space for eruption of the third molars of the mandible. Materials and methods: The studied patients with impacted third molars of the mandible are 127, aged 17 through 60. They were examined with Cone-beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). On the orthopantomography, obtained after the scanning as a reconstructed image, we defined the medio-distal inclination and space for eruption of the third molars of the mandible. For this purpose, we summarized several methods. Results: The most common inclination of the third molars of the mandible with retained eruption is the medial one at 120 teeth (61.5% ± 3.5). Second in frequency is the vertical one-34 teeth (17.4% ± 2.7), followed by the distal inclination– 21 teeth (10.8% ± 2.2). With the lowest frequency are the teeth which are positioned horizontally –20 teeth (10.3% ± 2.2). Shortage of retromolar space is established for173 teeth (88.7% ± 2.3). In 22 teeth (11.3% ± 2.3) there is enough space in the jaw for eruption. Conclusion: An objective method for determination of the medio-distal inclination of the teeth and the space available for eruption is introduced for the first time in Bulgaria. By determining the inclination of impacted wisdom teeth under this methodology one can avoid the subjective factor–the seventh tooth. It is not a reference plane, because it can also be tilted or missing. With the help of the developed method the retromolar point can be determined more objectively.
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