Survey Results: Dentists Refer Some Wisdom Tooth Extractions to Oral Surgeons

In our most recent survey, we asked dentists what percentage of wisdom tooth removals they refer to an oral surgeon. Overall, half of our dentist respondents refer out 80% or more third molar extractions. Some dentists were grateful to be rid of most or all wisdom teeth cases, while other dentists prefer to refer only the most complicated cases.

Not surprisingly, general dentists and specialists have very different profiles when it comes to referring patients. Specialists were sharply divided; 17% refer less than 20%, while 73% refer all extractions. Oral surgeons tend to treat wisdom tooth cases themselves, whereas specialists such as orthodontists or endodontists usually refer them all out. General dentists were less polarized. Half refer out 80% or more. On the other hand, one in four (24%) treat most extractions, referring less than 20% of cases.

Geography was not a particularly significant factor. It is worth noting that rural dentists are especially likely to treat most wisdom teeth patients themselves; in rural areas, there may not be a nearby oral surgeon.

Gender was also minimally significant. However, male dentists are twice as likely to report treating most wisdom tooth cases themselves.

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