Many studies have shown that the greatest risk of fracture of the mandibular angle is related to the presence of an unerupted lower third molar, based on the hypothesis that there is a decrease in the area of bone and absorption of the impact in this area, leading some surgeons to indicate its prophylactic removal in patients most exposed to the risk factors of facial trauma. On the other hand, other authors have observed a greater frequency of condylar fractures in patients without an impacted lower third molar.
Purpose: The aim of this study was to relate the condylar and angle fracture with an unerupted lower third molar, taking into account the position of the tooth.
Material and methods: Panoramic radiographs were used to determine if the presence or absence of the third molar is related to the occurrence of mandibular fractures, such as angle and condylar fractures.
Results: In a total of 43 patients with angle fractures, the greatest percentage had erupted teeth, and 41.9% had impacted teeth; however there was no significant difference between the fractured side and the tooth condition (p=0.350). There were 91 condylar fractures and in 42.9% the third molar was absent and in 40.7% the tooth was erupted . There was no significant difference between the fractured side and the tooth condition (p=0.852).
Conclusions: The absence of an impacted third molar may increase the risk of condylar fractures and decrease the prevalence of mandibular angle fractures.