Accidental Displacement of Mandibular Third Molar Root Into the Submandibular Space: A Case Report

Abstract

Accidental displacement of an impacted third molar, either a crown, root piece, or the entire tooth, is a rare complication that occurs during surgical removal. The most common sites of dislodgment of an impacted mandibular third molar root are the submandibular, sublingual and pterygomandibular spaces. Removal of a displaced root from these spaces may be complex due to poor visualization and limited access. A thorough evaluation of all significant risk factors must be performed in advance to prevent complications. This case report reveals the management of accidental displaced mandibular third molar root into the submandibular space. An 39 years-old male patient underwent a third mandibular molar extraction. Accidentally, the mandibular right third molar distal root was displaced into the submandibular space, making necessary a second surgical step. After 2 days awaiting an asymptomatic health status, the second surgical step was successfully performed using multislice CBCT as preoperative imaging guide. The present case report highlights the clinical usefulness of CBCT in proper treatment of the patient.

Story of a Displaced Tooth – A Case Report

“…The first case of iatrogenic displacement of a tooth date to 1958 and was published by Howe, who described the removal of a third molar located on the floor of the mouth. Since then, several cases of sublingual displacement of third molars have been reported [6].…”