Atypical Presentation and Surgical Management of Ectopic Mandibular Third Molar in Subcondylar Region: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Ectopic teeth arise from developmental abnormalities and can be supernumerary, deciduous, or permanent teeth. They can cause orofacial pain, swelling, and infection. There is a major paucity in literature about ectopic mandibular third molar (EMTM) and its causes, symptoms, and treatment. We present an unusual case of EMTM in the mandibular subcondylar region and its surgical management. A 58-year-old female reported with complain of pain and swelling in the right preauricular region. On radiographic assessment, the right mandibular third molar was ectopically present in the subcondylar region and associated with a small dentigerous cyst. Complete removal of cystic lining and extraction of EMTM was done under general anesthesia using a retromandibular approach. After surgery, there was a complete resolution of symptoms within 1 month with uneventful healing and no postoperative complications.

Keywords

• abscess
• condyle
• cyst
• tooth