Radiologic variables affecting extraction of impatcted mandibular third molars

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine radiologic variables affecting extraction of impacted mandibular third molar. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was investigated on 44 consecutive extractions of unilateral impacted mandibular third molars (Male;34, Female;10, Mean age;24.98, Age range;19-35). Fourteen radiologic variables, which were actual value except only one, were evaluated to establish their relation to the operation time. The Pearson correlation coefficient and Stepwise procedures for regression analysis were carried out. RESULTS: Eight variables (depth, angulation, ramus width, relationship to the second molar, distal ramus depth, mesial ramus depth, mesial periodontal ligament width and follicle) showed a statistically significant relation to the operation time (Pearson correlation coefficient, p<0.05). Two variables, depth and mesial periodontal ligament width, showed the most powerful and just relation to the operation time (r2 = 0.349, p<0.05). CONCLUSION: This study shows that our results can help general practioner to estimate the operation time of extraction of impacted mandibular third molars by measuring two radiologic variables; depth and mesial periondontal ligament width.