Wisdom teeth: back to basics Part 1

Introduction There exists an abundance of published literature highlighting the problems associated with the retention of asymptomatic, partially erupted third molars, in particular the mandibular mesioangular third molar. The issues surrounding rigid adherence to the 2000 UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance are well documented, and it is no surprise that its place in modern oral surgery practice has been called into question. This shi away from the old status quo has led to confusion among general dental practitioners (GDPs) about the appropriate timing of wisdom tooth referrals, and indeed whether to refer patients in the first place.