Third molars have a bad reputation due to their posterior location in the mouth, hence making them more difficult to clean. The issue of prophylactic extraction of third molars in Delta State was studied using a cross sectional survey. Quantitative methods were used and 394 subjects participated. This involved the use of questionnaires and observation. Intra-oral examination was done to note the presence or absence of the third molars. Impactions of the third molars as well as the state of the periodontal tissues were observed. There was a highly significant relationship between age and impacted third molars (P < 0.01). A highly significant relationship was seen for age and third molars (P < 0.001). This means that the prevalence of third molars and impacted third molars may be related to age. No significant relationship was however seen for age and infections (P >0.05); an indication that the prevalence of infections associated with third molars may not necessarily depend on age. Hence prophylactic extraction of third molars may not be worthwhile. This study has therefore shown that prophylactic extraction of third molars may not be beneficial.
