Tooth in the line of fracture: its prognosis and its effects on healing.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE The aim of this prospective study was to compare the postoperative results of mandibular angle fracture cases treated by open reduction and internal fixation wherein the third molar in the line of fracture was preserved in one group while it was extracted in the second group. MATERIALS AND METHODS Group I consisted of 30 patients in which the mandibular third molar in the line of fracture was preserved and group II consisted of 24 patients in which it was extracted following specific criteria. Various parameters like postoperative healing, infection, occlusion, tooth vitality, and mobility were graded numerically. Statistical analysis using a t-test was done. Data were expressed as mean±SD and a probability (P) value of <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS The presence of infection with pain and tenderness was higher in group I. Osteogenesis was higher in group I till the end of the third week but the difference was not significant later. Discrepancy in occlusion was more in group II. Mobility of tooth decreased and status of periodontal tissue improved significantly with time. In the tooth involved, the return of vitality and decrease in pain/tenderness was significant after 1 week and continued till 24 weeks to normalcy. Two teeth showed mild root resorbtion and none showed ankylosis. CONCLUSION Postoperative occlusal discrepancy is less but infection is higher when the tooth in the line of fracture is preserved as compared to when it is removed. More than half of the teeth in the fracture line show complete recovery within a period of 6 months to 1 year. Despite the risk of an increase in the rate of complications, the tooth in the line of fracture should be preserved for its merits.