Frequency and Management of Pericoronitis Cases in a Tertiary Dental Clinic in Benin City, Edo State

Pericoronitis, a localized inflammatory condition associated with partially erupted mandibular third molars, is among the most common acute presentations to oral surgery clinics in Nigeria. This retrospective descriptive study evaluates the frequency, clinical presentations, and management approaches of pericoronitis among patients attending the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery clinic at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, in the South South geopolitical zone. Patient records from 2019 to 2023 were reviewed, yielding 214 eligible cases. Data extracted include age, sex, affected side, presence of opposing third molar, degree of trismus, radiographic findings, and treatment provided. Results reveal a peak incidence in patients aged 18 to 25 years, with female patients slightly more affected than males. Treatment modalities ranged from irrigation and antibiotics in mild cases to surgical extraction of the causative tooth in recurrent or severe presentations. The presence of an opposing upper third molar was significantly associated with recurrence of pericoronitis. Delays in definitive management were observed due to resource constraints and patient non-compliance with scheduled follow-up visits. This study contributes to the local evidence base for clinical decision-making in managing pericoronitis within Nigerian tertiary institutions, and its findings may guide the development of standardized clinical pathways for third molar disease. Keywords: pericoronitis, third molar, mandibular, Benin City, surgical extraction.