Ectopic mandibular third molar associated with cystic lesion and extraoral approach: case report

Impacted mandibular third molars are classified by its relation with the second molars and with the ascending ramus of the mandible. Ectopic third molars do not obey this classification, being possibly found in the condylar region, in the ascending ramus of the mandible, in the coronoid process or in the base of the mandible. This article aim to present a case of an ectopic mandibular third molar associated with a dentigerous cyst that was removed using a Risdon's approach. A 49-year-old male patient was referred, after a radiographic finding, for evaluation of the lower right third molar (48) in an ectopic position associated with a radiolucent image, suggestive of cystic lesion, treated with extraoral submandibular approach. This case report can help other maxillofacial surgeons in decision making when they come across with a similar case, reducing the morbidity and improving the surgical results.