Management of Third Molars

The dilemma of whether and when third molars should be extracted - especially asymptomatic and nonpathologic teeth - faces dental practitioners daily, and the best
approach to this dilemma is to use evidence-based studies and the patient’s specific findings to make the decision. This course will provide the dental care provider with the confidence and knowledge to adequately manage these challenging decisions.

3 CE Credits

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A peer-reviewed article written by Jay Haddad, DDS, MSHA, MSPFP

Abstract

Evidence-based factors can aid the dental practitioner in making a more informed decision on whether and when to extract third molars. Understanding the different management options and the factors to consider in predicting eruption helps in decision-making. Possible pathologic sequelae of maintaining third molars include periodontitis and pericoronitis. The patient’s age is a significant factor in deciding whether and when third molars should be extracted. There are also orthodontic and prosthodontic considerations. The most common third molar extraction risks include alveolar osteitis, infection, delayed healing, clinically significant bleeding, and paresthesia. Germectomy and coronectomy are management options for third molars. Classification of impacted third molars helps predict extraction difficulty.

Educational objectives

At the conclusion of this educational activity, participants will be able to:

  • Improve decision-making on whether and when third molars should be extracted
  • Manage options for third molars
  • Discuss factors that can improve the prediction of third molar eruption
  • Describe the pathologic sequelae of maintaining third molars
  • Evaluate factors associated with third molars that are affected by the patient’s age
  • Consider orthodontics and prosthodontics in third molar extractions
  • Assess the risks of third molar extractions
  • Consider germectomies and coronectomies as management options for third molars
  • Classify impacted mandibular third molars

Jay Haddard, DDS, MSHA, MSPFP, is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon in private practice. He is a fellow of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology. He served in the US Army for 20 years, including six years as a mentor at the National Capital Consortium Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency, where he received the outstanding educator of the year award in 2007. Dr. Haddad has a passion for teaching and learning and recently earned his master’s degrees in health administration and personal financial planning.

Image Credit: Doctor.com
Quick Access Code: 15439

Not Enrolled
This course is currently closed$39.00

Course Includes

  • 13 Lessons
  • 1 Test
  • Course Certificate
  • 3 CE credit(s)

    Course Type: written

    This continuing education (CE) activity was developed by Endeavor Business Media with no commercial support.

    This course was written for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, from novice to skilled.

    Educational methods: This course is a self-instructional journal and web activity.

    Provider disclosure: Endeavor Business Media neither has a leadership position nor a commercial interest in any products or services discussed or shared in this educational activity. No manufacturer or third party had any input in the development of the course content.

    Requirements for successful completion: To obtain 3 CE credits for this educational activity, you must pay the required fee, review the material, complete the course evaluation, and obtain an exam score of 70% or higher.

    CE planner disclosure: Laura Winfield, Endeavor Business Media dental group CE coordinator, neither has a leadership nor commercial interest with the products or services discussed in this educational activity. Ms. Winfield can be reached at lwinfield@endeavorb2b.com.

    Educational disclaimer: Completing a single continuing education course does not provide enough information to result in the participant being an expert in the field related to the course topic. It is a combination of many educational courses and clinical experience that allows the participant to develop skills and expertise.

    Image authenticity statement: The images in this educational activity have not been altered.

    Scientific integrity statement: Information shared in this CE course is developed from clinical research and represents the most current information available from evidence-based dentistry.

    Known benefits and limitations of the data: The information presented in this educational activity is derived from the data and information contained in the reference section.

    Registration: The cost of this CE course is $39.00 for 3 CE credits.

    Cancellation and refund policy: Any participant who is not 100% satisfied with this course can request a full refund by contacting Endeavor Business Media in writing.

    Provider information:

    Dental Board of California: Provider RP5933. Course registration number CA code: . Expires June 2023. “This course meets the Dental Board of California’s requirements for 3 units of continuing education.”

    PACE

    Endeavor Business Media is a nationally approved PACE program provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.
    Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.
    11/1/2022 to 10/31/2024.
    Provider ID# 320452
    AGD code: 310

    AADH

    Endeavor Business Media is designated as an approved Provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHPNW (January 1, 2022–December 31, 2024). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit. AADH code:

    ADA CERP

    Endeavor Business Media is an ADA CERP–recognized provider.

    ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of dental continuing education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.

    Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to CERP at ada.org/goto/cerp.

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