05/24/2026
A palatally impacted upper third molar completely changes your flap design.
A routine buccal flap with a vertical release can leave you fighting poor visibility and difficult access from the beginning.
In these cases, a palatal approach gives broader reflection and significantly better exposure around the impaction.
But as you extend posteriorly, anatomy becomes critical.
The greater palatine artery and nerve can quickly turn this into difficult bleeding if violated, which is why the approach should stay conservative at first: Start small. Elevate gradually. Work from known to unknown.
Want to be mentored on third molar extraction cases?
Our 10-week Third Molar Mentorship Program starts next Saturday.
Apply what you learn in clinic with mentorship and accountability from two oral & maxillofacial surgeons. A program that pays for itself.
Starts Satarday!
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