Materials & Methods: A retrospective study was conducted by taking panoramic images of selective clinically examined patients. A total of 200patients were screened out of which 75 patients were found to be eligible for this study. The subjects were divided into three groups [Gr-A(13-14yrs), Gr-B(15-16yrs) and Gr-C(17-18yrs)] according to their age. The distance from ‘Xi’ to the distal aspect of mandibular second molar (DS-Xi) of both right and left side were measured (in mm.) for all panoramic images.

Results: Comparing the values of DS-Xi of left and right sides between the groups (irrespective of gender), statistically insignificant (P>0.05) results obtained. But while comparing the values of DS-Xi of left and right sides of all the males, females and in total (irrespective of groups); statistically significant (P<0.05) results were obtained.

Conclusion: The DS-Xi value has a diagnostic value in prediction of mandibular third molar eruption. Further parameters should be considered while assessing and more studies with larger sample size are recommended.