Work

Permanent neurosensory disturbances in the Danish population after removal of a mandibular third molar: incidence, distribution, and morbidity

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To assess the incidence, distribution and morbidity of neurosensory disturbances of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN), lingual nerve (LN), and buccal nerve (BN) after removal of mandibular third molars in the Danish population. STUDY DESIGN: Based on data from 2016-2021 from the Danish Dental Compensation system, relevant information regarding the quantity and quality of neurosensory disturbances after removal of a mandibular third molar was extracted. The incidence of neurosensory disturbance for each nerve branch was calculated. RESULTS: 357 patients had a mandibular third molar removed and filed a permanent neurosensory disturbance to the Danish Dental Compensation. 187 disturbances were related to the IAN, 178 were related to the LN, and 113 were related to the BN. The overall incidence of confirmed neurosensory disturbances was 0.30% and specifically 0.15% for IAN, 0.15% for LN, and 0.09% for BN. The patient-reported degree of unpleasantness was not related to a specific nerve branch. CONCLUSION: The IAN and LN were equally involved when patients had a neurosensory disturbance after removal of a mandibular third molar with an incidence of 0.15% each. BN was less frequently involved. The neurosensory disturbances had a moderate to severe impact on the patient's personal and professional lives.

Source: Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology

DOI: 10.1016/j.oooo.2025.01.717

Authors: Lars Bo Petersen, Henrik Nielsen, Lars Schropp, Louise Hauge Matzen

Institutions: Copenhagen University Hospital, Aarhus University

Language: English

Topic: Dental Radiography and Imaging

Subfield: Oral Surgery

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,670