Third molar in dentofacial orthopedics: Extraction versus non-extraction

According to a report published in the American Journal of Public Health, more than 67% of so-called preventive third molar extractions are unnecessary. Of the 10 million wisdom tooth extractions performed in America each year, only 200,000 are actually required. As early as 1895, Robinson stated that late anterior crowding was caused by the eruption of third molars. This was merely an expert opinion, lacking strong evidence, but since then, numerous studies have been published, fueling the debate. To date, the indication for wisdom tooth extraction for preventive orthodontic purposes remains unjustified in the majority of cases. The objective of this thesis is not only to conduct a literature review but also to try to change preconceived notions about the third molar so that the indication for extraction is based on sound justifications and arguments.