Preface

The idea for writing this book originated from numerous encounters with undergraduate dental students and oral surgery residents, who highlighted the lack of a comprehensive compilation of literature on various aspects of mandibular third molar surgery. There was a need to address this gap. Hence, a decision was made to compile this concise yet comprehensive book, which will be useful as a reference textbook as well as a practical guide to the minor surgery involving the removal of the impacted lower third molar.

The book is a sincere attempt to address each facet of mandibular third molar surgery management in a point-by-point manner. The initial part of the book deals with various terminologies related to the topic. The causes leading to the impaction of the lower third molar tooth and the reasons for its removal are elaborated. The foundation of a surgery's success is laid by thorough preoperative planning. Clinical findings relevant to impacted teeth and subsequent radiological assessment are detailed with numerous images for easy understanding. Over the past decade, the use of 3D imaging and cone beam tomography has been a boon to the detailed assessment of deeply impacted teeth. The section on the CBCT provides useful inputs regarding various aspects that need to be evaluated in the tomographic images for improved clinical outcomes and reduced postoperative complications. The armamentarium used for the procedure has been elucidated with relevant photographs for a better understanding of its applications. The surgical management has been thoroughly presented in the book, with numerous case studies and illustrations. The choice of anesthesia and the pharmacological agents used for third molar surgery have been described in separate sections as well.

The practice of third molar surgery has advanced over the years. A procedure done under basic anesthesia and with the use of a chisel and mallet for bone and tooth removal has now advanced with the use of new and sophisticated armamentarium. The use of piezosurgery, endoscopes, growth factor concentrates, and grafting of the bone defects, along with others, is elaborated in the book. In this age of increased patient awareness, medical litigation has been on the rise. The third molar surgery is no exception. Today, it is even more important that a dental surgeon be aware of informed consent and methods of safe practice. The medicolegal aspects of the procedure have been aptly described in this textbook.

I hope that both dental surgeons and oral surgeons, as well as students, will find this book beneficial and helpful in furthering their understanding and practice of mandibular third molar surgery.