BACKGROUND Third molar surgery is an important part of the activity in a maxillofacial surgery department. This common activity is often under-evaluated by patients who forget its surgical aspect. The aim of this study was to evaluate our practice, and especially complications, with special consideration given to medicolegal aspects. METHODS All the patients operated between September 2004 and July 2006 were enrolled in a retrospective study. This population is described, with the indications, follow-up, and complications. RESULTS One hundred and eighty patients were reviewed (sex-ratio 1, mean age 27 years). The most frequent indications were impaction and pain. The mean duration of hospitalization was 1.7 days and temporary disability, one week. Local infection occurred in 8%; there was neurological complication in 2% for the inferior alveolar nerve, and 1% for the lingual nerve. These were all transient cases. CONCLUSIONS Third molar surgery is an important and profitable part of the activity in a maxillofacial surgery department. Standardized information is necessary even if the rate of complications remains low.