title: Accidental displacement of impacted maxillary third molars.
abstract: Displacement of an impacted maxillary third molar into the infratemporal fossa is frequently mentioned but rarely reported. Imaging and retrieval of such a displaced tooth is difficult and requires urgent referral and hospitalisation for removal under general anaesthetic. The use of image intensification equipment in theatre allows removal of such a displaced tooth with minimal morbidity and is recommended. Prevention of displacement with the use of a distal retractor is strongly recommended when surgically removing impacted maxillary third molars.
authors.affiliation: Regional Centre for Maxillofacial Services, Walton Hospital, Liverpool.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Patel
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Down
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008964:Molar, Third / Q000601:surgery*; D013701:Temporal Bone; D014081:Tooth Extraction / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014095:Tooth, Impacted / Q000601:surgery