Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed? Key Considerations and Concerns

Should wisdom teeth be extracted?

Hello Doctor: In April of this year, I went for a dental cleaning and mentioned to the doctor that I felt my lower right wisdom tooth was about to erupt.
He said it had already emerged a little bit, but he told me it wouldn't grow any further and needed to be extracted, scheduling the extraction for two months later.
I was so startled that I found an excuse to postpone it! Recently, I've felt some swelling in the lower right area when rinsing my mouth, but there is no pain, and I have no issues eating! It seems like the wisdom tooth really hasn't continued to grow, which makes me seriously consider whether to have it extracted! A friend of mine had theirs removed and was swollen for several days, and I have mild mitral valve regurgitation.
Is it still appropriate for me to have my wisdom tooth extracted? I’ve looked up some videos and information online, and I believe the surgery itself shouldn't be too painful; otherwise, the patient might move, making the procedure difficult.
But what about post-operative pain? Can I take over-the-counter painkillers? Are they available at pharmacies? I'm really afraid of pain, and given my mild heart valve issue, should I ask the doctor for antibiotics? It seems like the occlusal surface of the wisdom tooth is visible; would that make the extraction easier? Is it necessary to have the stitches removed after the surgery? Thank you for taking the time to read my lengthy questions; I’m really quite anxious.

Pika Qiu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/25

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Pikachiu,
Hello! Based on what you've described, it seems that your wisdom tooth has caused inflammation, and it generally needs to be extracted.
Regarding the mild mitral valve insufficiency, antibiotics are not necessary unless surgery is involved.
Whether or not the tooth should be extracted mainly depends on the curvature of the roots, their size, and how deeply they are buried.
Essentially, you should trust your family dentist! Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2018/10/25

More Info

When considering whether to have your wisdom teeth removed, there are several key factors to weigh, especially given your specific health concerns and the current state of your wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often become problematic due to their positioning and the limited space in the jaw, which can lead to impaction, infection, or misalignment of other teeth.

Key Considerations for Wisdom Tooth Removal
1. Current Symptoms and Condition: You mentioned feeling some swelling in the area of your right lower wisdom tooth but no pain while eating. This could indicate that the tooth is partially erupted or impacted. Even if it’s not causing immediate pain, it’s essential to consider the potential for future complications, such as infection or damage to adjacent teeth.

2. Health Concerns: You noted having mild mitral valve prolapse (heart valve regurgitation). This condition can increase the risk of bacterial endocarditis, an infection of the heart lining, particularly after dental procedures. It is crucial to inform your dentist about this condition, as they may recommend prophylactic antibiotics before the extraction to minimize this risk.

3. Anesthesia and Pain Management: The procedure for wisdom tooth extraction is typically performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level. While many patients report minimal pain during the procedure, post-operative discomfort can vary. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are commonly recommended, and your dentist can prescribe stronger pain medication if necessary. It’s advisable to have a plan for pain management in place before the procedure.

4. Post-Operative Care: After the extraction, you will need to follow specific care instructions to promote healing and prevent complications. This includes avoiding strenuous activities, not using straws, and adhering to a soft food diet for a few days. You will also need to monitor the extraction site for signs of infection, such as increased swelling, redness, or discharge.

5. Sutures and Follow-Up: If your extraction requires stitches, your dentist will inform you whether they are dissolvable or need to be removed. It’s essential to attend any follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

6. Decision to Delay: If you feel anxious about the procedure, it’s understandable to want to delay. However, consider discussing your concerns with your dentist. They can provide reassurance, outline the benefits of timely removal, and help you understand the risks of waiting, especially if the tooth is already causing some symptoms.

Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision to remove your wisdom teeth should be made in consultation with your dentist, who can assess your specific situation, including the condition of your wisdom teeth and your overall health. They can provide personalized advice and address your concerns about pain management and the need for antibiotics due to your heart condition. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your oral health and overall well-being, and timely intervention can prevent more significant issues down the line. If you remain anxious, consider discussing sedation options that can help you feel more comfortable during the procedure.

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