An Evaluation of Pathologic Changes in the Follicle of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to evaluate the early pathologic changes in the follicular tissue of completely impacted mandibular third molar. MATERIALS AND METHODS 52 patients, between 18 and 52 years of age of which 25 were males and 27 were females, were selected. They had impacted mandibular third molars, which were indicated for extraction. After extraction, the follicle was sent for a histopathological evaluation to two different oral pathologists. RESULTS The results showed that 80.8% of the specimen had normal follicles. 11.5% specimen suggested cystic changes while 7.7% suggested infected follicle. CONCLUSION It is desirable to consider prophylactic removal of impacted mandibular third molar presenting at a younger age, whereas their removal remains an enigma for the older age group and should only be considered appropriate in those cases where frank causes for its removal are established.