Labial sensory impairment following extraction of impacted mandibular third molars

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was a prospective investigation into the occurrence of impairment of labial sensation after surgical removal of impacted third molars. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of postoperative sensory impairment of inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) after extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. Materials and Methods: The study sample consisted of 200 patients who were indicated for removal of impacted mandibular third molars. Extraction of the impacted tooth was done by using surgical bur technique. Postoperatively, patients were evaluated for impairment of labial sensation. Objective evaluation of IAN was carried out using light touch sensation, tactile discrimination, pain awareness, and two point discrimination. Results: Of 200 subjects, only two patients showed neurosensory deficit in relation to IAN. Conclusion: The main cause of neurosensory impairment was due to variables associated with tooth position, degree of impaction, operator skill and also depth of impaction and age of the patient.