Intraoral management of iatrogenically displaced lower third molar roots in the sublingual space: a report of 2 cases.

Abstract

Surgical removal of the mandibular third molars is one of the most common procedures performed by dentists, as well as by oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Accidental displacement of teeth or roots into the fascial spaces, during surgical removal of the mandibular third molars, is a rare, but serious complication. Herein, we present 2 cases of iatrogenically displaced mandibular third molar roots into the sublingual space, which were successfully removed under local anesthesia intraorally. In addition to methods to minimize the risk of accidental tooth or root displacement, the importance of recognizing this complication and the methods of retrieval are also discussed.