Three-dimensional evaluation of the mandibular third molars' development in unilateral crossbite patients: A cone beam computed tomography study.

OBJECTIVES: The aim was to investigate mandibular third molar (3M)'s maturation in the crossbite and normal sides by two- and three-dimensional analyses using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was performed using CBCT of 25 patients (16 females and 9 males; mean age: 16.8 ± 2.9 years) with unilateral posterior crossbite. The formation stages and the volume of the mandibular 3Ms were evaluated by means of CBCT data of the patients without knowing the crossbite side of the patients.

RESULTS: Statistically no significant differences were found in the development of the 3Ms between the crossbite and the control sides, whereas the volume of 3M was found to be less in the crossbite side than in the normal side (P = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS: A volume of 3M was found to be less in the crossbite side than in the normal side.