An assessment on the effects of mandibular impacted third molar surgery on the periodontium of the adjacent molar

Statement of Problem: One of the important indications for the extraction of mandibular impacted third molar is to preserve the periodontal health of the adjacent second molar from the destructive effects of plaque accumulation, acute and chronic inflammation. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of mandibular third molar surgery on the PDL of the adjacent molar. Thirty patients, referred to the department of maxillofacial surgery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, were selected, based on the desirable conditions. They had no history of systemic diseases and their adjacent molar was healthy. Probing depth (PD) at seven points and attachment level (AL) at three points were measured preoperatively. Standardized periapical radiographics were taken regularly for all patients. All the above-mentioned procedures repeated after three months of surgery. Findings were analyzed by Paired t-test. A significant difference in probing depth (PD) was observed before and after surgery, meaning that probing depth decreased after mandibular third molar surgery. Attachment level was also decreased post operatively moreover. Intrabony defects (IBD) showed healing after surgery. Considering the limitations of the present study, impacted third molar surgery is suggested to prevent periodontal problems of the adjacent molar.