Expert: Joel S. Teig, DMD, Diplomate ABOMS, retired - 3/21/2005

Question
Hello Doctor,

After years of my dentist bugging me to see an Oral Surgeon about my wisdom teeth, I finally went. The oral surgeon suggested removal of all 4 (1 upper and 1 lower broke through the gum- the other 2 are still below the gumline). I am 31 years old and I do not feel any pain from them other than some minor aching when they were coming in about 8-9 years ago. My question is: Should I have the surgery at this stage in my life? My concern is my fear that I have never been under general antethesia and why should I go through surgery when they don't bother me. Thank you in advance.

Anthony

Answer
Anthony -  I can only surmise from your dentist's suggestion to see and oral surgeon, he is concerned of potential ramifications if leaving the teeth.  The most common problem is a chronic periodontal problem which is inherent to wisdom teeth.  These teeth are structurally difficult to keep clean and often produce a chronic low grade infection.  Secondly, the periodontal inflammation of the wisdom tooth often affects the tooth in front.  Thirdly, as we get older the density of bone in the jaw favors a more difficult extraction.  If circumstances exist that your dentist feels that extraction is warranted I would do it sooner vs later.

General anesthesia makes the experience more pleasant, but is certainly not necessary if you are able to tolerate the pressure involved with local anesthesia alone.  The anesthesia used has a very low risk of complications.  As long as you are healthy and without allergies to the medications used feel comfortable in the knowledge that in office anesthesia has a lower complication rate than anesthesia in a hospital.

Good luck with whatever you chose.