The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons wrote in the AAOMS Newsgram that removing wisdom teeth is, "a valid and scientifically sound treatment" for patients to have impacted or unerupted teeth extracted (pulled). The teeth most commonly recommended for extraction are the wisdom teeth. The procedure is no more complicated than removing any other teeth. They can be removed by a general dentist using a local anesthetic such as xylocaine.

Of course, there are risks involved with removing these or any other teeth, but weighing the risks may show more benefit in having them removed before trouble starts. Risks include prolonged recovery, damage to the roots and bone support of adjacent teeth, and discomfort. You should consider your particular situation before deciding if you want to have your wisdom teeth removed, because the AAOMS also "does not advocate the indiscriminate removal of impacted or unerupted teeth." That means, there should be a reason to remove them, but you can discuss this with your dentist or orthodontist. He or she can tell you if your unerupted wisdom teeth will come in straight or on an angle.

A large percentage of wisdom teeth erupt with the crown pointed at an angle toward the root or crown of the adjacent tooth. This can create a V-shaped space between the crown of the wisdom tooth and the crown of the adjacent tooth, which may later act as a food trap and cause problems of decay.

The AAOMS concluded its report by stating that "the popular concept 'if impacted and unerupted teeth don't both you, don't bother them' is not supported by the weight of clinical evidence compiled over the many years." Consider talking this practice of preventive dentistry with your dentist or orthodontist before a problem develops. You might find this "word to the wise" valuable!

Disclaimer:

The information in this newsletter is only for the purpose of providing you with information regarding your orthodontic care and treatment. It is not intended to offer any medical or dental advice. Please contact your own dentist or orthodontist for treatment, appliances, or instructions that are right for you.