title: What is the future of third molar removal? A serious presentation for not performing the removal of third molars.
abstract: There are three causes for third molar removal: pain, anterior crowding and the 'time-bomb' theory, which are used to justify the removal of otherwise asymptomatic third molars. Arguments are presented to show that these may not be as true as we think and perhaps we need to reconsider our whole approach to third molar removal. Carrying out a procedure which has a significant risk of morbidity without good reason is unacceptable.
authors.forename: J H
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Sinclair
mesh_terms: D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D003657:Decision Making; D005157:Facial Pain / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008310:Malocclusion / Q000601:surgery; D008964:Molar, Third / Q000601:surgery*; D014081:Tooth Extraction