Retention of Asymptomatic Impacted Third Molars: Effects on Alveolar Bone at the Distal Surface of Second Molars over Time.

Objective

To assess radiographic changes in the alveolar bone on the distal aspect of the second molars (2Ms) over time, while impacted third molars (ITMs) remain present across two timepoints.

Methods

This retrospective observational study aimed to assess radiographic changes between two timepoints (T0 and T1). Both Orthopantomogram (OPG) and Periapical (PA) X-rays were utilized, with three measurements taken on the distal surface of 2Ms using EMAGO 6.1 software. Statistical significance was defined as a p-value < 0.05.

Results

A total of 51 patients met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 45 years (SD ± 13). Sixty-eight second molars were assessed at baseline (T0) and follow-up (T1), with a mean interval of 20 months (SEM ± 62 days). No significant changes were found in vertical, oblique, or angular bone levels between T0 and T1. Gender significantly affected the cementoenamel junction (CEJ)-base of defect (BD) measurements (p = 0.022) and defect angles at T0 (p = 0.048), but not at the adjusted T1 (p = 0.292). Other variables, including medical history, smoking, and ITM angulation, showed no influence. Patient age was borderline significant in relation to intrabony defect angle (p = 0.047).

Conclusions

Considering its limitations, this analysis does not provide evidence to support the hypothesis that prophylactic extraction of ITMs yields significant bone-sparing benefits. Furthermore, it does not establish that prolonged retention of ITMs consistently results in short-term bone alterations in adjacent 2Ms. Consequently, further research is warranted to more accurately assess the medium- to long-term implications of ITM retention on the bone levels of 2Ms.