Cross-sectional imaging of third molar-related abnormalities

Abstract

Third molars may be associated with a wide range of pathologic conditions, including mechanical, inflammatory, infectious, cystic, neoplastic, and iatrogenic. Diagnosis of third molar-related conditions can be challenging for radiologists who lack experience in dental imaging. Appropriate imaging evaluation can help practicing radiologists arrive at correct diagnoses, thus improving patient care. This review discusses the imaging findings of various conditions related to third molars, highlighting relevant anatomy and cross-sectional imaging techniques. In addition, key imaging findings of complications of third molar extraction are presented.