Oral Microbiome Wisdom Tooth Impaction Angulation

Long-term retention of impacted third molars (wisdom teeth) is associated with plaque stagnation and the development of caries on the distal surfaces of the neighbouring mandibular second molar. Whilst caries and tooth loss are common outcomes of impaction, there is not currently enough evidence to advise pre-emptive removal of asymptomatic wisdom teeth. Emerging evidence suggests that convergently growing impactions are more associated with caries. We have therefore investigated the composition of dental plaque on the distal surface of the mandibular second molar.