A Retrospective Study of Correlation of Third Molar Impaction Pattern with Distal Caries in Abutting Second Molar

Aim: To study distal caries prevalence in mandibular second molar and its relationship with mandibular third molar impaction pattern.  Subject & Methodology: The study was cross-sectional, retrospective which assessed 500 digital panoramic radiographs of 469 patients.  Observation & Results: The study involved 500 cases aged 18 to 59, with 66% presenting with decayed teeth and 59% experiencing pain; mesioangular was the most prevalent pattern of 3rd molar impaction, and a significant correlation (P = 0.001) was noted between caries in the abutting second molar and mesioangular 3rd molar impaction in class I and level B.  Conclusion: The presence and type of impaction are definitely correlated with distal caries in mandibular second molar.