Wisdom Teeth, to extract or not extract NY Times

It has been the general consensus that people should preemptively pull their wisdom teeth to avoid any potential problems in the future. A recent article in The New York Times Health section brings to light a different perspective concerning whether extracting wisdom teeth is always necessary and if people should be so hasty with this decision.

The article sites a general lack of research about the topic while showing how the figures and estimations that are available often contradict themselves. For example, it was estimated that roughly 75% of people should get their wisdom teeth pulled but the number of people that actual do is much lower. Furthermore, if people first waited until they experienced any pain from their wisdom teeth, then half as many extractions would actually be necessary. And of the people who don’t get their wisdom teeth pulled, one study found that 80% develop complications within seven years. Yet another study found that same percentage to be in the low teens.

The decision to pull one’s wisdom teeth should be determined on a case-by-case basis. Contrary to popular belief, wisdom teeth do not lead to crooked front teeth and should not be pulled for that reason. The “article correctly states  “The general consensus among critics of routine extraction is that recurrent gum infection, or pericoronitis; irreparable tooth decay; an abscess; cysts; tumors; damage to nearby teeth and bone; or other pathological conditions justify the procedure." To this list I would add foreseeable and potential damage to near by teeth and bone along with an obvious and sever lack of space for the wisdom tooth to erupt into. An orthodontist may also suggest wisdom tooth extraction to gain addition space.


If, after consulting your dentist and getting a second opinion you conclude that you will need to get your wisdom teeth pulled, here are some recommendations:
-         Plan to take off two to three days to allow yourself to heal properly
-         Take papaya pills or supplements in the days leading up to and after the surgery

Extracting wisdom teeth is like any procedure, there is always a small chance of complications. So if such a procedure isn’t truly necessary, it would be preferable to avoid getting it done. Extracting one’s wisdom teeth should not be looked at as an inevitable inconvenience that everybody must go through, but instead as a procedure that should only be performed only if necessary.