PANORAMIC RADIOGRAPHY IN ORTHODONTIC DECISION-MAKING: A FOCUS ON MANDIBULAR THIRD MOLAR IMPACTION

Background:Impaction is defined as the failure of complete eruption of a tooth into a normal functional position within normal time due to lack of space in the dental arch caused by obstruction by another tooth or development in an abnormal position. Radiographic imaging plays a pivotal role in the evaluation, diagnosis, and management planning of third molar impactions. It provides critical information regarding tooth position, angulation, proximity to vital structures, and surrounding bone quality.