Experiencing Wisdom Tooth Removal at Age 74: A Personal Account

At the age of 74, I recently underwent the removal of one of my wisdom teeth. This experience prompted me to reflect on the challenges of wisdom tooth extraction, especially for the elderly. Though I have been fortunate to live a long life without any major complications from these teeth, recent developments in my oral health have necessitated their removal.

The Decision to Remove a Wisdom Tooth

When I was a teenager, my dentist had recommended the removal of all four wisdom teeth to prevent potential issues. However, I made a conscious decision to wait, thinking that some wisdom teeth might never cause problems and could be managed with regular dental care. As it turned out, three of my wisdom teeth remained asymptomatic, and only one required attention due to a severe cavity.

Wisdom teeth are notoriously difficult to access, making traditional dental procedures less viable. Unlike regular teeth, which can be easily treated with fillings or crowns, wisdom teeth often require the expertise of an oral surgeon. Therefore, I scheduled an appointment with a local oral surgeon to address the issue.

The Procedure and Experience

I opted not to have sedation, a decision that allowed me to experience the procedure mentally and physically. Initially, the surgeon and her team—three kind and reassuring Asian women—put me at ease. However, the leather operating chair was less welcoming, adorned with heavy-duty arm tie-downs reminiscent of a interrogation scene. This setup was designed to ensure my cooperation during the procedure, though the surgeon did not tie my arms down, which was a relief.

After a routine numbing injection, which is standard for such procedures, the surgeon addressed the main concern: the impacted tooth. Using specialized tools, often referred to as forceps, he began the extraction process. Unlike the simplified portrayals in movies, the reality was less dramatic, requiring more precise movements to dislodge the stubborn tooth.

When the tooth did not budge easily, the surgeon opted to use a small saw to cut it in half, a method commonly used to ensure complete removal. He then focused on removing one half at a time. Once the tooth was fully extracted, he informed me of the extensive cavity that had caused the need for removal. He assured me that, left untreated, the tooth would have disintegrated within a year.

After the extraction, I was kept for about half an hour to allow the numbing agent to wear off. The oral surgeon and her team would not allow me to leave on my own, ensuring my safety due to the potential lingering effects of the local anesthesia and the anesthesia used in the procedure.

Post-Procedure Recovery and Follow-up

The post-extraction experience was relatively mild. The empty tooth socket was the primary area of discomfort, which subsided after a few days. For a week following the procedure, I followed a stringent cleaning regimen to prevent infection. Thankfully, I did not experience any complications and the cost was manageable (my co-pay was $50, and my regular dental insurance covered the rest).

Considering the options, I have mixed feelings about sedation. While sedation is an additional risk, it might be worth it for those who are extremely anxious or uncomfortable with the procedure. However, for me, the psychological distress of thinking about the procedure seemed more significant than the physical pain, and I believe I would choose the same course of action if another wisdom tooth needed to be extracted.

Conclusion: Wisdom Teeth and Dental Care for the Elderly

My experience underscores the importance of routine dental check-ups, especially as we age. While wisdom teeth can often be left alone if they are not causing problems, they do require attention when issues arise. For seniors, the decision to remove wisdom teeth should be made in consultation with a trusted dental professional, taking into account both the risks and the benefits.