Relationship between mandibular angle fracture and state of eruption of mandibular third molar: A digital radiographic study

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between mandibular angle fracture and the status of eruption of the mandibular third molars. Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of 50 mandibular angle fracture cases with or without the presence of mandibular third molars, inclusive of both genders in the age group 18 years and above. The mandibular angle fractures were assessed by taking an orthopantomograph for each case following strict radiation protection protocol after an informed consent was obtained. The captured image was assessed and traced for the presence of mandibular angle fracture, angulation, and status of mandibular third molar by using Windows Trophy DICOM and Master View 3.0 software. Pell and Gregory's and Winter's classifications were followed. Results: We observed the following: Increased incidence of angle fractures in the presence of mandibular third molar, male predominance, the mean average age being 29 years, and the most common cause of angle fractures was road traffic accident; the fractures were observed more on the left side. In the total sample, mandibular third molar was present in 90% of the cases with angle fracture; of this, 73% of the teeth were impacted. Increased incidence of mandibular angle fracture was observed in position A, class II, and mesioangular impaction of third molar, which were statistically significant. Conclusion: The presence of mandibular third molar was in strong association with mandibular angle fracture and there was an increased incidence of position A, class II, and mesioangular impaction, when compared with other positions. This study concludes that there is a direct relationship between the presence and status of impacted third molars with increased risk of mandibular angle fracture.