Partial odontectomy.

The problem of inferior alveolar nerve involvement during the removal of lower third molars is a clinical and medicolegal issue. Because the results of damage to the inferior alveolar nerve are unpredictable in that many cases do recover but some do not, it is preferable to carry out a technique that may reduce the possibility of this involvement. The technique of coronectomy, partial odontectomy, or deliberate root retention is one such technique to protect the inferior alveolar nerve that has been studied in the past but does not currently enjoy a strong body of support. The technique of coronectomy is worthy of consideration in cases in which panorex radiograph and cone beam CT scanning show an intimate relationship between the roots of the mandibular third molar and the inferior alveolar nerve.