Surgical management of non-third molars

Abstract

This presentation will discuss the treatment on non-third molar impacted teeth. Treatment of impacted permanent teeth must be based on clinical and radiographic evaluation as well as determination of future risks. Clearly teeth that are symptomatic, have caused infection in the surrounding tissues, or have evidence of development of radiographic changes (cyst formation, resorption of adjacent teeth, or root resorption of the impacted teeth) require surgical treatment. Treatment of the asymptomatic tooth must take into account many factors, including age, specific prevalence of pathologic conditions, severity of potential pathology associated with impacted teeth, progression of untreated conditions, frequency and severity of potential complications of treatment, potential patient discomfort and inconvenience associated with either treatment or nontreatment, and economic consequences of treatment. Methods of treatment of impacted permanent teeth include orthodontic assistance through surgical exposure with or without attachment of the tooth, surgical uprighting, transplantation, and surgical removal.