2009-2010 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) president Dr. Ira Cheifetz has said some disappointing and upsetting words in his recent inauguration speech on October 15, 2009 in Toronto, Canada.
We have known empirically for many years that untreated third molars are likely to cause problems. Now we have the evidence-based data to back us up. The Third Molar Clinical Trials, undertaken jointly by the AAOMS and the OMS Foundation, has shown a correlation between third molars, their associated biofilm, and systemic disease. Despite the reams of evidence reported by this ongoing study, the American Public Health Association recently released a policy statement that notes, “. . . the removal of ‘asymptomatic’ third molars is unnecessary and is a drain on the resources of the health care system”.
How do we respond to this challenge? Recognizing the effect this position could have on our fellows and members and the public’s health, the AAOMS took immediate steps to address this incorrect and potentially dangerous policy. The Third Molar Task Force was appointed to respond to the media and others who inquire about the APHA policy. Using the AAOMS White Paper on Third Molars and the evidence reported by the Third Molar Clinical Trials, we are able to supply solid information quickly to dispel misconceptions, innuendo, and stale, unreliable data. On other fronts, the AAOMS meets regularly with representatives of the insurance industry and third party payers to explain our position and present our research. Our science is unassailable and an easily withstand in-depth scrutiny from any individual or group willing to put aside a preconceived agenda and examine the facts. We have and will continue to make this information available to all communities of interest.
Clearly, Dr. Ira Cheifetz is taking issue with retired dentist Jay W. Friedman.
Firstly, I do not think there is any ‘preconceived agenda’ going on by those arguing for evidence-based dentistry and extraction of wisdom teeth for valid medical reasons. Simple examination of the facts and data by the British National Institute for Clinical Excellence show
There is no reliable evidence to support a health benefit to patients from the prophylactic (preventative) removal of pathology free impacted teeth.
Secondly, I would really like to see some information that Dr. Ira Cheifetz says is available regarding why healthy impacted wisdom teeth should be extracted and removed. Sufficient complications occurring in numerous individuals regarding chronic 24/7 headache, death, and permanent injury are reported and continue to emerge as more wisdom teeth are removed when in fact those wisdom teeth were not causing any health problems in the first place!
I encourage you to write, phone, and/or emall Dr. Ira Cheifetz and let him know your thoughts on third molars (wisdom teeth) and why evidence-based medicine is necessary in the United States.
Dr. Ira Cheifetz
Phone: 609/587-2900
E-Mail: iradc@aol.com
2303 Whitehorse-Mercerville Road, Suite 5
Mercerville, New Jersey 08619-1994