A study on the impact of mandibular third molars on angle fractures.

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the relationship between the status and position of mandibular third molars and angle fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a total of 2,033 patients with a mandibular fracture, 532 (26%) had angle fractures, and 1,466 (72%) had retained their lower third molars. The most frequent cause for mandibular fracture was road traffic accident (64%), followed by assault (19%).

RESULTS

Of 341 patients with an unerupted third molar, mandibular angle fracture was evident in 249 patients (73%). Only 62 patients (9.4%) with a completely erupted third molar had angle fractures, whereas 83 patients (17.6%) with partially erupted third molars had angle fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirmed an increased risk of angle fractures in the presence of a lower third molar, as well as a variable risk for angle fracture, depending on the third molar's position.