Current thinking in lower third molar surgery

The removal of lower third molar teeth is one of the most common surgical procedures performed worldwide, but many concepts in this surgery have been unclear and have engendered different opinions. This paper aims to review current thinking in certain pertinent aspects of this surgery to update the reader on the most current research and synthesise it to make clinical recommendations. Topics covered include preoperative imaging, timing of removal, flap design, lingual retraction, coronectomy, lingual split, closure techniques, and use of antibiotics, steroids, and drains. (c) 2021 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This paper reviews certain aspects of lower third molar tooth removal surgery to provide updated research and clinical recommendations, including preoperative imaging, timing of removal, flap design, lingual retraction, coronectomy, lingual split, closure techniques, and use of antibiotics, steroids, and drains.