Background: Third molar influence on anterior crowding is controversial, However, it is assumed that they play a major role in compromising dental arch space. Aim: To review the literature to clarify the role of third molars in anterior crowding and relapse after orthodontic treatment by means of a systematic review. Material and methods: A systematic search was conducted based on an electronic search of several databases (Pub Med, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library) covering publications from 2010 to January 2022. The search was performed using the acronym PICOS, limited to the following keywords in English and French: «wisdom tooth» OR« third molar »AND «anterior teeth crowding». Results: On the basis of the keywords, 549 bibliographical references were initially identified. After the elimination of duplicate references and studies, the number of articles was reduced to 315. A review of titles and abstracts resulted in the selection of 23 articles. After reading the full text, 6 articles were included in this systematic review. Conclusion: No relationship between the incisors crowding and the presence of third molars was identified. Therefore, the indication for prophylactic removal of third molars to avoid incisor crowding is not justified.
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