Hi - 60 year old female - 2nd molar (#18) bottom left, has deep pockets. Went to periodontist where I had a panoramic xray which showed impacted wisdom tooth next to molar, with periodontal issues also. Periodontist said that the molar definitely needs to be pulled, but is having me have a consult with an oral surgeon to discuss what to do with the wisdom tooth. Very worried now about all I have been reading on internet and oral surgeon websites regarding all the complications I could have with the wisdom tooth extraction. I'm very worried and nervous now about this whole thing, even though I know I probably don't have a choice. I have health anxiety and also don't like the thought of being put under. I can't let this go much longer. Should I get two opinions from different oral surgeons? How terrible is this going to be at my age? Thanks for any help or insight you can give me.
Linda

Hi Linda,

It is most common for younger people in their late teens, early twenties to have their wisdom teeth removed. But oral surgeons often see people in their 50's and 60's for wisdom tooth removal as well.

Basically any oral surgeon would tell you that your age is less of a concern compared to the health risks of keeping these two infected molars. It is important to understand that the infection from the periodontal disease is progressive and the only chance of bringing it under control is to remove those teeth.

It is best to have some light general anesthesia for the removal of the impacted wisdom tooth. It can be a light IV sedation called Twilight. You are asleep and have no feeling or idea of what is going on.... but you will awake easily when the procedure is over. You will be very numb from the local anesthetic for several hours. Also, when #18 is removed, the access to #17 (the wisdom tooth) is a lot easier than you think it is.

Whatever your physical/medical problems are... discuss them in detail with the oral surgeon so that he can treat you accordingly. It's normal to be nervous about this.... but hopefully you will find some reassurance in that your dental problem is commonly seen and successfully treated by oral surgeons.

I hope this information is helpful to you.... please keep up posted on how you're doing.

Bryanna

Thanks Bryanna for your response. Am going to oral surgeon for consult on 9/4. Will let you know how it goes.
Linda

I was in mid 60's when I had my wisdom tooth removed by an oral surgeon. I was not put under; just numbing. I had a crown on the tooth so there was very little to get at other than the small piece of tooth attached to the long root. I was concerned because this would have to be what sounded like "dug" out.

My dentist referred me to an oral surgeon. Oral surgeons are quite equiped for this type of extraction. I don't think you have anything to worry about.

Gerry)