B3482 - Factors associated with third molar pathology and treatment in a representative population - 30/06/2020
Changes in dental practice as a result of NICE âGuidance on the Extraction of Wisdom Teethâ, mean that fewer adults now have prophylactic removal of their wisdom teeth. However, recent studies have demonstrated an increase in the risk of infection, dental decay and gum disease in angled wisdom teeth or in the neighbouring teeth since the implementation of NICE guidance.
This means we are seeing an increasing number of patients who may present with disease affecting wisdom teeth or the neighbouring teeth, so there is a need therefore to identify those who are at risk of developing wisdom tooth complications and who may benefit from removal. In addition, we will better our understanding of the potential barriers to receiving appropriate wisdom tooth treatment.