Principais exames de imagem utilizados no planejamento cirúrgico de terceiros molares: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

The extraction of third molars is the most performed surgery in Dentistry. As with any other operation, it requires detailed surgical planning and the chosen imaging exam will guide the dentist’s actions, as well as the operation techniques and possible diagnoses, and useful information regarding the patient’s case. This work’s goal is to analyze and compare, within the literature, in which situations the panoramic radiography and the cone beam computed tomography will be more appropriate to execute, depending on the anamnesis and clinical findings, as well as tooth position, eruption stage and general risks that are involved within the extraction. This study is based on a descriptive literature review and qualitative approach, data collection was based on articles arranged in the databases: PubMed, Academic Google, Scielo and Lilacs, selecting articles from 2000 to 2022 in Portuguese and English. Posteriorly to the search, it can be defined that the panoramic radiography still is the gold standard imaging exam in Dentistry and the first-choice of imaging exam to be executed for the surgical planning of extraction(s) of third molar(s), whilst the cone beam computed tomography is done when the panoramic delivers confusing findings and information, or when there is evidence of possible complications implicating the nerves.