The story of impacted wisdom teeth: Chicago, 1979, Quintessence Publishing Company. Price, $18.00

Abstract

This rather unique patient-education series actually consists of three paperback brochures, a demo drawing and special pen, instructions for use, and a packet of recap sheets to give to the patient after explaining his particular problem. While this is directed primarily to the oral surgeon and to the general practitioner who removes third molars, the orthodontist is obviously interested, since he follows his patients into an age when a decision must be made. In many of his patients, first premolars have already been removed, and the orthodontic decision may be vital. The first brochure is essentially 15 pages of well-done drawings, with descriptive material written at a level for easy patient comprehension. It tells the story of what impacted teeth are and the possible complications if these teeth are left unattended. The second 7-page illustration-description format elaborates on the advantages of early removal of impacted wisdom teeth. The third 9-page pamphlet discusses impacted wisdom teeth in the middle and later years. Drawings are well done, and the text is minimal but adequate and easy to understand. The demo drawing permits personalization of the problem, and the g-drawing recap sheet emphasizes early removal to prevent the complications illustrated. From a distribution point of view, it is an excellent effort. (It has been estimated that 85 percent of the average oral surgeon’s work involves removal of impacted third molars.) From a scientific point of view, the question arises as to frequency and severity of claimed unfavorable sequelae, particularly the crowding of other teeth due to the presence of third molars. The mandibular drawings are a bit misleading, since third molars can actually erupt into normal position and still have part of their coronal structure behind the anterior border of the ramus. The alveolar trough curves to the lingual of the ramus. On balance, and if handled correctly by the operator, this type of patient-education material should benefit the patient when third molar removal is truly indicated. T. M. Graber