Reliability of periapical radiograph in the preoperative assessment of impacted mandibular third molars (IM3Ms)‎ clinical and radiographic : prospective study

Abstract EN

Aim of the study : This study is presented to demonstrate the reliability of periapical radiograph in the preoperative assessment of (IM3Ms) and to investigate the extent of correspondence between radiographic appearance and the true anatomy of the tooth.

Materials and methods : Ninety (IM3Ms) from eighty patients were examined preoperatively by periapical radiograph and subsequently removed.

Results and conclusions : This investigation showed that periapical radiographic examination alone is of value but not enough in the determination of the true anatomy and position of (IM3Ms), and there is significant discrepancy between the radiographic appearance and true anatomy of the tooth, regarding the roots configuration, number of roots and other anatomical landmarks.