A Correlation between Mandibular Angle Fracture and the Mandibular Third Molar

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study evaluated correlation and risk factors between position of the mandibular third molars and mandibular angle fractures using clinical and radiographic findings.METHODS: Medical records and panoramic radiographs of 188 patients with mandibular fractures were retrospectively reviewed. The presence and position of the third molars were assessed for each patient and were related to the occurrence of mandibular angle fractures.RESULTS: The incidence of mandibular angle fracture was found to be greater when a lower third molar was present, particularly at the occlusal plane positioned on the 2nd molar occlusal surface (by Archer system) and the third molar is impacted in mandibular ramus (by Pell & Gregory system). Of the 192 sites with a lower third molar, 32 (16%) had an angle fracture. Of the 184 site without lower third molars, 16 (8%) had an angle fracture.CONCLUSION: This study confirmed an increased risk of angle fractures in the presence of a lower third molar as well as variable risk for angle fracture, depending on positioning of the third molar.