Has Anyone Died From Getting Wisdom Teeth Removed
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that grow at the back of the mouth. They usually appear in late adolescence or early adulthood. While some people have no problem with their wisdom teeth, others might experience complications such as overcrowding, impaction, infections, and decay. In such cases, dentists might recommend removing the wisdom teeth. But, is it safe to get your wisdom teeth removed? Has anyone died from getting their wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom Teeth Removal: A Common Procedure
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure performed on millions of people every year. The procedure is usually done under local or general anesthesia, and it involves making an incision in the gums to access the wisdom teeth. Depending on the complexity of the case, the dentist might remove the wisdom teeth in parts or as a whole. After the procedure, the patient might experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding, but these symptoms usually subside after a few days.
Possible Complications of Wisdom Teeth Removal
While wisdom teeth removal is generally safe, it is not risk-free. Some of the possible complications of wisdom teeth removal include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Swelling
- Pain
- Nerve damage
- Dry socket
Bleeding and infection can be managed with proper care and medication, but nerve damage and dry socket might require additional treatment. Dry socket is a condition where the blood clot that forms after the tooth is extracted dislodges, exposing the bone and nerves. This can be very painful and might require a visit to the dentist.
Has Anyone Died From Getting Wisdom Teeth Removed?
While complications from wisdom teeth removal are rare, there have been reports of deaths associated with the procedure. Most of these deaths are related to the use of anesthesia. Anesthesia is a medication that is used to put the patient to sleep during the procedure. It is generally safe when administered by a trained professional, but it can be dangerous if not properly monitored. Some of the risks associated with anesthesia include:
- Allergic reactions
- Cardiac arrest
- Respiratory failure
- Brain damage
However, it is important to note that the risks of anesthesia are very low, and death from wisdom teeth removal is extremely rare. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the risk of death from wisdom teeth removal is about one in 400,000.
How to Reduce the Risks of Wisdom Teeth Removal
While the risks of wisdom teeth removal are low, there are some precautions that you can take to reduce the risks even further. These include:
- Choosing a qualified and experienced dentist or oral surgeon
- Discussing your medical history and any medications you are taking with your dentist
- Following the pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully
- Avoiding smoking, drinking, and using straws for at least 24 hours after the procedure
- Keeping the extraction site clean and avoiding hard, crunchy, or spicy foods for a few days after the procedure
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and successful wisdom teeth removal procedure.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that is generally safe. While there is a small risk of complications, death from wisdom teeth removal is extremely rare. By choosing a qualified and experienced dentist, discussing your medical history and medications, and following the pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully, you can help reduce the risks of wisdom teeth removal even further. If you are experiencing problems with your wisdom teeth, talk to your dentist about whether or not wisdom teeth removal is right for you.