Effectiveness of digital opg in ruling out the unpredictable behavior of third molar eruption/impaction on basis of retromolar space analysis

Abstract

Background: Shortage of eruption space between lower second molar and the ramus has long been identified as a major factor in the etiology of lower third molar impaction. The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate the validity of a particular linear measurement made on digital panoramic imaging to be used as a reference for early prediction of lower third molar eruption or impaction. Materials & Methods: A retrospective study was conducted by taking panoramic images of selective clinically examined patients. A total of 200patients were screened out of which 75 patients were found to be eligible for this study. The subjects were divided into three groups [Gr-A(13-14yrs), Gr-B(15-16yrs) and Gr-C(17-18yrs)] according to their age. The distance from ‘Xi’ to the distal aspect of mandibular second molar (DS-Xi) of both right and left side were measured (in mm.) for all panoramic images. Results: Comparing the values of DS-Xi of left and right sides between the groups (irrespective of gender), statistically insignificant (P>0.05) results obtained. But while comparing the values of DS-Xi of left and right sides of all the males, females and in total (irrespective of groups); statistically significant (P