Prevalencia de fracturas mandibulares asociadas a la exodoncia de terceros molares inferiores: revisión narrativa

Abstract

Dental extractions are routine procedures in dental practice; however, the extraction of lower third molars can lead to complications such as mandibular fractures. Various studies have shown that impacted lower third molars, classified as Class II and III, Types B and C according to Pell and Gregory, and with mesioangular orientation according to Winter's classification, represent the main risk factors. Objective: To review scientific literature from specialized databases on the association between the extraction of lower third molars and the incidence of mandibular fractures, using targeted academic resources. Methodology: A bibliographic review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scielo, and Google Scholar. The search strategy included keywords from the MeSH and DeCS thesauri, combined with Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) and refined using the PRISMA method. Inclusion criterio consisted of articles published within the last 10 years, with no language restrictions, human studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. Studies with poor methodology, lacking peer review, as well as theses and books, were excluded. Results: Seven articles were selected, revealing that mandibular fractures are an uncommon complication. Age and the clinician’s level of expertise were noted as contributing risk factors. Conclusions: Mandibular fractures are rare but serious complications occurring in less than 1% of cases. The most frequent predisposing factors are mesioangular orientation according to Winter and Class II and III impactions based on the Pell & Gregory classification.