Immediate and late mandibular fractures after third molar removal.

PURPOSE In this retrospective study, we analyzed immediate and late mandibular fractures after impacted lower third molar surgery. PATIENTS AND METHODS One hundred fifty oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the north of- France were questioned about their experience with intraoperative and late mandibular fracture after third molar surgery. Cases were examined clinically and radiographically. RESULTS Thirty-seven fractures were reported in about 750,000 extractions (incidence of 0.0049%). Only 27 cases could be precisely described: 17 intraoperative and 10 late fractures. The patients were 19 to 75 years of age, with an average age of 37 years for intraoperative fractures and 47 years for late fractures. All grades of tooth impaction were included. Only 2 patients did not have full dentition. CONCLUSIONS The major incidence of immediate and late mandible fractures occurs in patients older than over 25 years. Men may be more likely to have late fractures (8 of 10 cases).