Assessment of role of mandibular third molar position in lower anterior crowding- A cross sectional study

Abstract

Objective: To assess the relationship of mandibular third molar position and lower anterior crowding in adult patients. Methodology: A sample of 90 pretreatment casts were divided on the basis of lower third molar position into three groups: erupted, unerupted, and agenesis. Orthopantomograms and dental casts of all 90 samples were procured from the archives of department of orthodontics. The individual quantitative analytical registration of crowding was based on modified arch analysis proposed by Lundstorm. The length of the lower anterior segment was measured with the help of brass wire. Results: Chi-square test and ANOVA statistical tests revealed that there was no statistically significant difference in lower anterior crowding between the groups with erupted, unerupted, and agenesis of third molars on both right and left sides. Conclusion: The third molars do not create statistically significant difference in lower anterior crowding. The recommendation to extract lower third molar to minimize future anterior crowding is thus not justified.