Correlation between developmental stages of mandibular third molar and retromolar space

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Original Article

Author Details : Syeda Arshiya Ara, Humera Ayesha

Volume : 2, Issue : 3, Year : 2016

Article Page : 97-102

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Abstract

Background: The degree of formation of third molar, its presence and position is associated with the development of this tooth. A decrease eruption space between lower second molar and ramus has been identified as an etiology of lower third molar impaction.
Aims and objectives: To assess the association between developmental stages of the mandibular third molars and space distal to the permanent molars (retromolar space).
Materials and method: The study included pre-treatment lateral cephalographs and orthopantomograms of 200 orthodontic patients (136 females and 64 males) of age group from 8 and 18 years old. The molar formation stages were assessed by the method of Nolla’s. The retromolar distance was measured from the most concave point of the anterior border of the ramus to the distal surface of the first molar. Statistical analysis included analyses of variance for group differences and pearson product moment for assessing associations among variables.
Results: High correlation between developmental stage of third molar and retromolar space (r=0.726) was observed. The formation stage advanced with age, but wide standard deviations were noted. The retromolar distance increased with age and was greatest between 9 and 12 years. An increment of 5 mm of retromolar space corresponds to a 2.4 stage in tooth maturation.
Conclusions: The developmental formation of mandibular third molar is associated with the available retromolar space. An increase in retromolar distance suggests a higher chance of eruption, an advanced stage of development of the mandibular third molar might be an additional indicator of future eruption.

Keywords: Third molar; Dental age; Root formation; Development; Retromolar space

How to cite : Ara S A, Ayesha H, Correlation between developmental stages of mandibular third molar and retromolar space. IP Int J Maxillofac Imaging 2016;2(3):97-102

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