Eruption Status of Third Molar and Its Possible Influence on the Location of Mandibular Angle Fracture: A Retrospective Analysis

Introduction: This study was designed to evaluate the influence of eruption status of mandibular third molars on the location of mandibular angle fracture. We also aimed to evaluate the incidence of damage to mandibular third molar teeth (M3) and its roots. Materials and Methods: Medical records and panoramic radiographs of 142 patient cohorts with mandibular angle fractures with third molars present were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Revealed that incidence of angle fracture were high in patients with fully erupted M3 when compared to unerupted group. Out of 142 patients, 108 fractures were found involving the M3 socket and 14.1 % had damage to M3. Conclusion: The presence of erupted mandibular third molar increases the chances of angle fracture when compared to impacted M3. Involvement of the M3 socket often resulted in increased operative time and complexity of the surgical procedure with possible removal of the damaged M3. © 2014, Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India.