Journal of the American Dental Association, Vol 96, Issue 1, 88-90
Copyright © 1978 by American Dental Association
The case of the disappearing third molar
LJ Warner
and
SC Morrow
A mandibular third molar moved into the lower border during a period of several years. When the patient experienced discomfort, an incisional biopsy and marsupialization were performed. Eight months later, adequate bone had regenerated and the molar and remaining cyst structure were removed. Full-mouth and panoramic radiographs would have allowed the dentist to locate the missing molar before surgery was necessary.