Coronectomy of mandibular wisdom teeth: A case series

Int J Surg Case Rep. 2022 Jan:90:106673. doi: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2021.106673. Epub 2021 Dec 8.

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Coronectomy represents a common procedure performed in oral surgery, mostly involving the lower wisdom teeth when the extraction presents a risk of injury to the inferior alveolar nerve (NAI). The surgical approach can be described as a coronal separation of the tooth and leaving the roots intact in the socket. The result is impressive with the disappearance of the symptomatology at first and especially the root migration, which occurs most frequently in the first 6 months.

Cases series presentation: We present a series of clinical cases of coronectomy involving the lower wisdom tooth which was performed by respecting the preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative measures and whose indications were established correctly.

Discussion and conclusion: Besides the previously mentioned indication, this procedure can be associated with other clinical situations such as dentigerous cysts. However, there are several circumstances in which coronectomy is contraindicated. According to our study, we can conclude that coronectomy of mandibular wisdom teeth represents a reassuring alternative to the preservation of NAI. Complications may occur but follow-up remains a key point in visualizing the progression of the roots away from the mandibular canal.

Keywords: Case series; Coronectomy; Inferior alveolar nerve; Mandibular wisdom tooth.