PREVENTIVE EXTRACTION OF THIRD MOLARS

Abstract

Prophylactic third molar extraction has caused much discussion and controversy among dentists. Reasons supporting prophylactic extraction include impaction, pericoronitis, carious lesions, periodontal changes distal to second molars, crowding, and risk of odontogenic cysts. On the other hand, extraction of third molars, although it is a routine surgical procedure, is also an invasive intervention that can lead to accidents and complications. The process was carried out by means of a search of scientific publications in the databases: Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) and PubMed/Medline, using the descriptors “tooth extraction”, “third molar” and “oral surgery” with the boolean "OR". According to the literature, prophylactic extraction of third molars can prevent some oral health problems, which may be associated with periodontal disease, carious lesions, adjacent root resorption, pericoronitis, development of cysts, odontogenic tumors and pain. In addition to the risks to oral health, wisdom teeth can cause difficulty in chewing, anxiety, insomnia, irritability and some dietary restrictions that can harm the individual's daily social relationships. In view of what has been presented, we can conclude the need to understand the particularity of each patient in relation to the extraction of third molars, paying attention to the correct diagnosis and prognosis to propose the best treatment option, whether preventive or therapeutic.