Coronectomy (intentional partial odontectomy of lower third molars).

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the rate of infection of retained lower third molar roots after coronectomy in teeth judged to be in intimate relation to the inferior alveolar nerve.

STUDY

DESIGN

This was a retrospective study of 52 patients who were operated on over a 10-year period.

RESULTS

Only 3 of 52 patients had to have roots removed because of pain or infection. Postoperative findings and aspects of the surgical technique are also discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

Coronectomy is a worthwhile option to extraction where a lower third molar is judged to be in close proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve. In lower third molar removal the potential damage is high when certain radiographic signs are present, whereas the infection rate of roots remaining after coronectomy is, by contrast, low.