Abstract
Background: Third molar influence on anterior crowding is controversial, However, it is assumed that they play a major role in compromising dental arch space. Aim: To review the literature to clarify the role of third molars in anterior crowding and relapse after orthodontic treatment by means of a systematic review. Material and methods: A systematic search was conducted based on an electronic search of several databases (Pub Med, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library) covering publications from 2010 to January 2022. The search was performed using the acronym PICOS, limited to the following keywords in English and French: «wisdom tooth» OR« third molar »AND «anterior teeth crowding». Results: On the basis of the keywords, 549 bibliographical references were initially identified. After the elimination of duplicate references and studies, the number of articles was reduced to 315. A review of titles and abstracts resulted in the selection of 23 articles. After reading the full text, 6 articles were included in this systematic review. Conclusion: No relationship between the incisors crowding and the presence of third molars was identified. Therefore, the indication for prophylactic removal of third molars to avoid incisor crowding is not justified.
Highlights
The third molars are the last permanent teeth on the dental arch
The most controversial role of the third molars is whether they can contribute to the development of malocclusion or relapse after orthodontic treatment, in the anterior segment of the dental arch
This work aims to review the articles published on the topic to clarify the role of third molars on anterior teeth crowding and relapse after orthodontic treatment, and this through a systematic review
Summary
The third molars are the last permanent teeth on the dental arch. Their eruption takes place late, at the end of growth.These teeth are helpful in the anatomical, functional, and dynamic balance of the dental arches, in masticatory function and maintenance of the vertical dimension.In orthodontics, the most controversial role of the third molars is whether they can contribute to the development of malocclusion or relapse after orthodontic treatment, in the anterior segment of the dental arch.Several studies have reported conflicting results.[1]This work aims to review the articles published on the topic to clarify the role of third molars on anterior teeth crowding and relapse after orthodontic treatment, and this through a systematic review. The third molars are the last permanent teeth on the dental arch. Their eruption takes place late, at the end of growth. These teeth are helpful in the anatomical, functional, and dynamic balance of the dental arches, in masticatory function and maintenance of the vertical dimension. The most controversial role of the third molars is whether they can contribute to the development of malocclusion or relapse after orthodontic treatment, in the anterior segment of the dental arch. This work aims to review the articles published on the topic to clarify the role of third molars on anterior teeth crowding and relapse after orthodontic treatment, and this through a systematic review. It is assumed that they play a significant role in compromising dental arch space
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