Third molars: Distal caries development in adjacent second molars

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This review of the prevalence of distal surface caries in second permanent molars associated with retained third molars included 11 mainly retrospective observational studies findins a pooled prevalence of 23% (95% CI; 2% to 44%).

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Impacted canines: localisation with conventional or cone beam radiographs?

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This review comparing cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and conventional radiography (CR) for localising impacted canines included 8 mainly cross-sectional studies and suggests that CBCT is more accurate. However the quality of the studies is low and further research is needed.

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Orthodontic extractions and third molar angulation

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This review of the effect of orthodontic extractions on the angulation of third molars included only 14 retrospective studies. This provides very low quality evidence of any effect

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Impacted canines – insufficient evidence for best surgical approach for good periodontal outcomes

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This review of surgical approaches for the management of labially impacted canines only identified 3 small studies at high risk of bias. These provide insufficient evidence to determine the best approach.

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No reliable evidence of benefit from extracting primary canine teeth for correcting poorly aligned permanent canines

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In a small proportion of children (1-3%) the upper permanent canine tooth is diverted into the roof on the mouth.  Treatment of this displacement can be complex and it is considered that the early removal of the primary canine tooth may improve the position f the developing permanent successor. The aim of this Cochrane review [read the full story…]

Still insufficient evidence to support or refute routine prophylactic removal of asymptomatic impacted wisdom teeth

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Third molars (wisdom teeth) generally erupt between the ages of 17-24 years. Often they fail to erupt or only erupt partially. When they do not reach their normal functional position they are considered to be impacted, this can be due to lack of space, obstruction by another tooth, or development in an abnormal position.   An [read the full story…]