Iatrogenic mandibular fracture associated with third molar removal : can it be prevented ?

Removal of third molars is the most common procedure in oral surgery. It may be associated with complications, such as sensory damage , dry socket, infection and iatrogenic damage. A case of mandibular angle fracture during third molar extraction in a 37?year-old female is reported. Literature review on the possible etiologies and ways of prevention were recorded. The reason is believed to be multifactorial and include: age, gender, degree of impaction, relative volume of the tooth in the jaw, preexisting infection or bone lesions, failure to maintain a soft diet in the early postoperative period and the surgical technique. It is possible to reduce the risk of this complication by adoption of preventive measures.