Removal of third molars (wisdom teeth) remains one of the most common procedures and indications for referral to Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons. The treatment of impacted third molars that have neither symptoms nor disease is controversial. One school of thought is that these teeth should be extracted before they do become symptomatic and/or diseased. A second school of thought advocates retaining these teeth until such time when they show evidence of developing symptoms or disease. We conclude by suggesting that the decision to extract third molars seems most effective when made on a case-by-case basis that is tailored to each patient’s health status and access to professional oral health care.
Key words: Prophylactic removal, Third molar, wisdom tooth