Evaluation of incidence and pattern of third molar impactions in Jammu region: A cross sectional study

Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective is to evaluate the frequency of third molar impactions, their angulations, and percentage of agenesis in mandible within the demographic confines of Jammu region of Jammu. The pattern of third molar impactions shows variation with respect to different population. Besides, impacted third molars engender potential pathologic complications. Materials and Methods: The sample consists of 310 orthopantomogram from patients who reported to the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery IGGDC Jammu throughout a period of one year. Data regarding age, gender, prevalence and pattern of third molars were collected and analysed. Results: Among 310 patients, 183 were male and 127 were female. The percentage of impactions was higher in case of females than males. Moreover, females had a marginally higher rate of agenesis than males. Mandibular impactions had a higher percentage than maxillary impactions. Mesioangular was the most prevalent angulation. Percentage of vertical impactions in maxilla exceeded that in mandible. Keywords: Third molar, Agenesis, Impaction, Orthopantomogram, Mesioangular.