My top two wisdom teeth started coming through a few months ago, and now they seem to be about 1/3 of the way through my gums. I had some discomfort when they were coming through, but other than that they haven't caused any problems. I have a dentist appointment in a few weeks and I'm worried that he might tell me that they need to be removed. I don't have the money or time for the procedure right now. Does anyone here have partially in wisdom teeth that haven't caused any problems?

I know that most wisdom teeth do need to be removed, but I think that's only if they're impacted or pushing another tooth out of the way to come through. If it's not a medical necessity, I'm going to put off removal for awhile. I know that they say it's better to do it when you're young and heal faster, but I'm in a REALLY tight financial situation right now.

I have another concern. I switched from a pediatric dentist (whom I loved) to an adult dentist about 2 years ago. The past couple of times I went to the new one, the dental hygenists have been fairly rude. I really like the dentist, but not most of the hygenists. For instance, I ask for nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for everything, even having my teeth cleaned. I have a large fear of the dentist, and that really calms me down. The hygenists always make jokes about how nervous I am, and the fact that I want the gas for cleanings. I am not amused by them, and I think they are being right down rude and unprofessional. It's not like they just make one joke and drop it either. When the dentist comes in, they make sure to tell him that I insisted on gas for just a simple cleaning. Their behavior makes me uncomfortable and not want to go there anymore. Is it just me, or is this behavior plain unacceptable? If this were your situation, would you continue going to this dentist, or switch?

Thanks!

Regarding your wisdom teeth. If there is a dental school near you, you can get them pulled very cheaply. Sometimes they have a sliding scale for payments based on income. The quality of the work is really just about as good as what you would get from a dentist that graduated from such a school. The wait may be longer, and you may get to be an exhibit for several students to look at, but that seems to be a reasonable trade for saving a great deal of money.

I cut my last wisdom tooth when I was 15. I have all 4 of them, totally formed, and I'm now a few decades past 15 My dentist tried for 20 years to get me to have them pulled. But they are not impacted, perfectly formed, and not bothering anyone so I told him there must be a reason why we are to have 32 teeth and to keep his hands off of them. He has since given up trying to talk me into having them extracted

Honestly, the only reason to have widsom teeth removed (that are not impacted)is if they are pushing your other teeth out of alignment and messing up your bite.

As for changing dentists - you do need to find one that you are comfortable with. You don't need to be teased or belittled every time you go in for an appointment. There are many who are understanding and professional. I'm lucky - I've been going to the same dentist for about 35 years and I simply don't know what I'll do when he retires.