A BSTRACT Context: The evaluation of relationship between the roots of impacted lower third molar (IL3M) and inferior alveolar nerve injury (IAN) with orthopantamogram (OPG) is mandatory before performing de-impaction surgery. An investigation is considered reliable if it can be reproduced by various examiners. Assessment of OPG is subjective and varies among examiners. OPG is reliable to clinicians if the interpretation is not a product of guess work. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the magnitude of agreement among oral surgeons and oral radiologist in observing intimate relationship between IL3M and mandibular canal. Materials and Methods: OPGs were evaluated by two oral surgeons and one oral radiologist for nerve root relationship. All the three were from different institutions with 10–15 years of experience. The three observers were blinded from each other’s findings. A total of 127 OPGs were evaluated for inter-observer agreement. Fifty OPGs were evaluated after 60 days for intra-observer agreement. The agreement was evaluated based on Cohen’s κ statistics. Results: Our results denote that the interpretation of OPG among specialists is not in good agreement. We suggest development of methods to standardize evaluation of OPG and the exposure technique to improve inter-observer agreement among the dental specialists.

A BSTRACT Context: Injury to inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in lower third molar (L3M) surgery may lead to unpleasant sensation or anesthesia of lower lip. Considering the quality of life of the patient and the litigations faced by the dentist, alternative treatment approaches to odontectomy have been studied by various researchers. Coronectomy is one such option to prevent the nerve injury. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of coronectomy to reduce nerve injury during L3M surgery in high-risk cases as per radiological signs. Settings and Design: A pilot study was conducted in the oral surgery department of Rajah Muthiah Dental College, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, India to evaluate coronectomy and its usefulness. Materials and Methods: Sixty-five patients who satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria for coronectomy were included in the study. The patients were followed up to 1-year period. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics was used. Results: None of the patients in the study group had IAN impairment. Conclusions: Coronectomy is a safe alternative for complete odontectomy in high-risk L3M surgery cases. Root migration, infection, and need for second surgery are potential complication. Further studies with more samples and variables need to be performed.