Abstract
Objective: To determine the prevalence of third molar agenesis and associated characteristics. Material and Methods: A total of 2374 panoramic radiographs were retrieved from the radiological archives and evaluated in a computer monitor under optimum viewing conditions. The basic demographic data (age and sex) and the primary findings regarding the presence or absence of third molars in the maxillary and mandibular arches were recorded systematically in a specially designed proforma. Categorical variables were compared using the Chi-square test. Results: A total of 2000 panoramic radiographs were included in the study, of which 1004 were females (50.2%), and 996 were of males (49.8%). The incidence of third molar agenesis was 486 patients (24.3%). Maxillary third molar showed a higher prevalence of agenesis (28.8%) than mandibular third molars (16.4%) . A total of 1514 patients (75.7%) had third molars in all four quadrants, and the remaining 486 patients (24.3%) had agenesis of third molar tooth in at least one of the quadrants. Single tooth agenesis was observed in 219 (11%) patients, two teeth agenesis in 172 (8.6%) patients, three teeth agenesis in 39 (2%) patients, and four teeth agenesis in 56 (2.8%) patients. Conclusion: The present study exhibited a maximum number of single tooth agenesis. It was also observed that maxillary third molar agenesis is more than the mandibular third molar and the right side is more than the left side. Agenesis of the third molar is more prevalent in males as compared to females.
Highlights
The process of evolution has resulted in a gradation of changes in the ecosystem, including humans.Evolution leads to gradual changes in the anatomical and functional dimensions in species leading to the concept of rudimentary or a vestigial organ
A total of 2000 panoramic radiographs were included in the study, of which 1004 were females (50.2%), and 996 were of males (49.8%)
Maxillary third molar showed a higher prevalence of agenesis (28.8%) than mandibular third molars (16.4%)
Summary
Evolution leads to gradual changes in the anatomical and functional dimensions in species leading to the concept of rudimentary or a vestigial organ. The concept of natural selection forms the basis of evolution, which selectively eliminates the rudimentary structures. The third molar teeth are considered vestigial in nature, in addition to small tendinous muscles and muscles of the ear [1]. Third molars' role cannot be underweighted as an important tool in forensic investigations. Third molars could play a vital role in regenerative medicine [3]. Agenesis of third molars could impact as it serves as a valuable tool in these aspects. It is well known that the third molars (M3s) are most commonly involved in various teeth-related aberrancies or anomalies
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