Evaluation of the prevalence of impacted permanent second molars on panoramic radiographs

Aim: The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of impaction in permanent second molars. Methods: Panoramic images from 10.000 patients aged 15 and older, who presented to our clinic between January 2021 and January 2022, were meticulously examined. Inclusion criteria comprised 78 impacted second molars observed in 53 patients. The classification of second molars was conducted based on impaction type and angulation. Results: The overall prevalence of second molar impaction was determined to be 0.53%, with 39.6% identified in female patients and 60.4% in male patients. Type 1 impaction was the most frequently detected and constituted 50%, while Type 2 and Type 3 impactions were detected at rates of 34.6% and 15.4%, respectively. Impaction types of mandibular second molar did not differ according to gender, side, or distance from the mandibular first molar distal surface to the anterior border of the ramus. Conclusion: The prevalence of impacted permanent second molars was notably limited. Despite the infrequency of impaction, quick identification is critical for optimal treatment timing and the avoidance of associated consequences.