PROPHYLACTIC EXTRACTION OF ASYMPTOMATIC THIRD MOLARS

Abstract

The extraction of third molars, known as wisdom teeth, is not only a correction procedure, but also considered a preventive method for the long-term health of the oral cavity. Thus, the general objective of this research was to evaluate, through a literature review, the preventive surgical dental removal of third molars, followed by the following specific objectives: to describe the indications for the prophylactic removal of third molars, to point out the implications and possible accidents associated with the removal of third molars and to discuss the main advantages and disadvantages, as well as the possible complications related to the surgical procedure. The integrative literature review consisted of searching for articles in the following databases: Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS), Regional Library of Medicine (BIREME) and National Library of Medicine and National Institute of Health - USA (PubMed). The results showed 180 studies, of which 10 articles were selected according to the inclusion criteria. These teeth are often removed with the justification of preventing future changes in an asymptomatic patient with no signs of associated pathology at the time. However, there are complications and risks associated with the surgical procedure of removing impacted third molars, such as postoperative infection, alveolitis, neurosensory changes, pain and exacerbated edema or even mandibular fractures. Therefore, it is concluded that both prophylactic removal and preservation are indicated, but each case must be evaluated individually.