Prevalence of Third Molar Agenesis in Patients – A Panoramic Retrospective Study

Background/Purpose: Agenesis is found to be the most common dental anomaly affecting at least 25% of the population. Agenesis is an anomaly where the tooth germ fails to differentiate completely into dental tissues resulting in congenitally missing teeth. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of bilateral agenesis of mandibular second premolars. This study also reflects upon the treatment options available for the agenesis of mandibular second premolars. Materials and Methods: Bilateral agenesis was considered as agenesis and unilateral agenesis was excluded from the study. Orthopantamograms (OPGs) of 945 dental patients aged 6 years -30 years were examined for the agenesis of teeth. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the percentages and frequencies were calculated using chi square test and the level of significance was considered if p value was <0.05. Results: The prevalence of bilateral agenesis or congenitally missing mandibular second premolars were at 10.5%. Conclusions: The prevalence rates of bilateral agenesis or congenitally missing mandibular second premolars are more common in males than females. A well informed evidence based decision should be taken for the clinical management of the missing mandibular second premolars.