Wisdom Teeth Extraction: What Are They Thinking?
When I was growing up, my Hillsboro dental office mentioned the possibility of wisdom teeth extraction. However, it wasn’t until I turned 20 that my dentist suggested it might be necessary. I didn’t question him at the time, especially after he showed me a panoramic X-ray. A month later, I experienced severe pain in my mouth; one of my wisdom teeth was breaking through the gum. It was then I began to think my Hillsboro dentist might have been correct. I scheduled an appointment with an oral surgeon, but I now wonder why I didn’t research more or question the advice I was given.
The Controversy of Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Many people choose to undergo wisdom teeth extraction, but it might not always be the best decision. According to retired Hillsboro dentist Dr. Jay Friedman, writing in the Health Policy and Ethics journal, the routine prophylactic removal of wisdom teeth might be a public health hazard. He argues that at least two-thirds of these extractions, along with their associated costs and potential injuries, are unnecessary. This unnecessary procedure leads to lifelong discomfort and disability for thousands, constituting a hidden epidemic of iatrogenic harm.
Dr. Friedman asserts there is no evidence to justify preventive surgery. Instead, he suggests it benefits the dental career financially, particularly for oral and maxillofacial surgeons who can earn over half a million dollars annually from these 40-minute procedures. This financial incentive might be why there is still a strong push for wisdom teeth extractions in the U.S.
Myths and Misinformation
Rather than evidence, misconceptions and myths fuel this multibillion-dollar industry. One of the most common myths is that wisdom teeth have a high incidence of disease. In reality, only about 12% of impacted wisdom teeth face issues, a rate similar to that of appendicitis. Yet, we don’t routinely remove appendixes just to be safe.
Another myth is that erupting wisdom teeth cause crowding of other teeth. Dr. Friedman argues this is not possible because a single tooth emerging in spongy, superficial bone cannot displace 14 well-implanted teeth.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction Practices Around the World
In Europe, the unnecessary extraction of healthy impacted wisdom teeth has largely ended. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence advises dentists and oral surgeons against removing healthy third molars due to the risk of nerve injury. Wisdom teeth extraction is not without risks, as there are at least sixteen known complications, including infection, permanent nerve damage, dry socket, and even death.
Dr. Friedman emphasizes that routine prophylactic extraction should not be considered standard care but rather a silent epidemic. I agree and believe it’s time for change in the U.S. The supposed benefits of removing wisdom teeth lack evidence, and instead, the procedure inflicts avoidable pain and suffering on individuals.
Conclusion: Rethinking Wisdom Teeth Extraction
The decision to undergo wisdom teeth extraction should involve careful consideration and consultation. Patients should be informed about the actual necessity and potential risks, rather than being swayed by common misconceptions. Informed decisions can prevent unnecessary procedures and safeguard individuals from long-term complications. Wisdom teeth extraction should not be a routine practice but a well-considered medical decision aligned with genuine needs.
East Wind Dental Care
Dental Implant placement in Hillsboro, Oregon, and Beaverton Oregon
family dentistry in Hillsboro
https://eastwinddentalcare.com
amily and Cosmetics Dentistry in Hillsboro, Oregon.
East Wind Dental Care Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon. We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful. East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health. When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Website: https://www.eastwinddentalcare.com
Dentist in Hillsboro, OR - East Wind Dental Care provides general dentistry in Hillsboro. Make your next family dentist appointment at East Wind Dental Care. General Dentistry, Preventative Dentistry, Pediatric (Kids!) Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Tooth Replacement. Crowns and Bridges, Dental Implants & Mini Dental Implants Dentures (with specialty), Complete denture, Partial Dentures.
East Wind Dental Care
Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon.
We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful.
East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health.
When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
East Wind Dental Care
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 17:00 and Saturdays with appointments.
Website: https://eastwinddentalcare.com/
Make an appointment online at https://eastwinddentalcare.com/contact-3/
