About this Research Topic

Background

Oral and maxillofacial surgery often focuses on the management of third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, reflecting their significant presence in peer-reviewed publications. Wisdom teeth are not just troublesome due to conditions like pericoronitis, orthodontic complications, or root resorption of adjacent teeth; they also serve as potential spare parts for autotransplantation, replacing missing teeth effectively. As such, their management has evolved from conventional surgeries to incorporate advanced imaging and digital planning.

This Research Topic aims to refine the management of third molars to enhance patient health and surgical outcomes. The primary goal is to spotlight advancements in surgical planning and execution for wisdom teeth, integrating cutting-edge techniques that include virtual simulation, 3D printing, and advanced imaging within daily dental practices. By focusing on innovative solutions and improved protocols, this collection aims to elevate the standard of care and efficiency in third molar surgeries.

To gather further insights into effective wisdom tooth management, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Imaging techniques for wisdom teeth and surrounding tissues
- Management of impacted, semi-impacted, and ectopic third molars
- Treatments of pericoronitis and associated infections
- Effects on neighboring anatomical structures during third molar surgeries
- Innovations in tooth trauma management, germectomy, and coronectomy procedures
- Digital techniques for tooth autotransplantation
- Local and systemic complications of third molar surgeries
- Integrative approaches to third molars in orthognathic surgery
- Anesthetic techniques specific to third molar surgeries
- Pre- and post-operative care considerations
- Challenges related to wisdom tooth extractions, including bone fractures
- Evaluations of surgical tools and minimally invasive techniques

We invite high-quality original research, comprehensive reviews, and insightful case reports and series that contribute to this dynamic and significant field of dental surgery.

Keywords: third molars, wisdom teeth, third molar germectomy, coronectomy, third molar autotransplantation

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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