Evaluation of effect of third molars on lower anterior crowding

Background: Increase in crowding in mandibular arch with increasing age is a significant clinical problem. The etiology of this phenomenon has been a topic of debate for several decades. The purpose of this study was to test, whether there is any correlation between presence of mandibular third molar and lower anterior crowding. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on orthodontic study models and orthopantomogram obtained from 90 subjects with an average age 21.01±4.13 years. The subjects were divided into 3 groups (30 subjects each) based on the eruption status of mandibular third molars which included; (i) Erupted Third Molar Group, (ii) Erupting Third Molar Group, (iii) Agenesis of Third Molar Group. Carey’s analysis was performed for each model and statistical analysis was done. Results: No significant differences in amount of crowding were found among three groups. Conclusions: The lower anterior crowding is a very common feature of a completed permanent dentition. No statistically significant difference in the amount of crowding is present when subjects with erupted, erupting and agenesis of third molar are compared. Keywords: Lower anterior crowding, Mandibular third molars