Introduction:
Second molar teeth are vital for mastication in a functional occlusion. Early loss of second molars has a functional, financial, and psychological impact on the patients. Caries and periodontal disease remain two of the most common etiological factors for this loss. Dental caries is a multi-factorial, microbial disease characterized by demineralization of the inorganic portion and destruction of the organic substance of the tooth, often leading to cavitation. The present study aims to assess caries frequency and the base line data on caries burden in second molar teeth.
Method: The study was conducted to assess the prevalence of distal caries in second mandibular molars due to impacted third molars. Target population consisted of patients reporting to Nishtar Institute of Dentistry, Multan. 989 radiographs were recorded and examined for distally carious second molars and impacted mandibular third molars. SPSS version 2.3 was used for data analysis and entry.
Results: 40.8% of the target population reported with distal caries due to third molar impactions. 53.30% of these impactions were of the mesioangular variety. No distal caries was detected in transverse type of impactions.
Conclusion: High prevalence of distal caries in mandibular second molars was traced to partial and mesio-angular impactions of the third molars. Consequently, extraction of mandibular third molars should be considered to prevent caries and premature loss of second molar teeth.
Key words: Distal caries, Impacted third molar, Infections, Risk Factor
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