Straight lift technique as an alternative to surgical extraction of an intact, partially impacted mesioangular mandibular third molar

Straight lift technique as an alternative to surgical extraction of an intact, partially impacted mesioangular mandibular third molar

Impacted mandibular third molar removal is the most common procedure performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons. An array of alternative pro-cedures have been suggested, like operculectomy in cases of pericoronitis and coronectomy in certain cases. However, these procedures pose several disadvantages, and we propose a relatively non-invasive ‘straight lift technique’. This technique is specifically useful in straightening abnormally posi-tioned mesioangular third molars as a substitute of complete removal. This can improve tooth function, eliminate the need for surgical intervention, and reduce the risk of complications associated with third molar removal.