HK01 mystery-shops three Shenzhen dentists: all urge removing a wisdom tooth near the nerve on the spot
An HK01 reporter with a sideways wisdom tooth close to the nerve visited three Shenzhen clinics; all three dentists advised taking it out on the spot. The full recommended treatment was quoted at about HK$22,000 in Hong Kong and about HK$6,000–9,600 in Shenzhen, and the clinics disagreed on whether root canal treatment was needed. A former Hong Kong Dental Association president said the proper approach is to explain the steps, recovery and wound care first, then let the patient go away and decide.
What it means for you
Removing a wisdom tooth near the nerve carries risks such as numbness. Beyond price, a proper explanation and time to decide matter.
Editors' take: the background
The roots of a lower wisdom tooth can sit close to the inferior alveolar nerve, which gives feeling to the lower lip and chin. An X-ray is usually taken first; if the roots look close to the nerve, a 3D scan (CBCT) may be suggested to see exactly where it runs before deciding what to do.
Being close to the nerve does not mean it must come out today. Options include full removal, removing only the crown and leaving the roots (coronectomy), or monitoring a tooth that causes no symptoms. Each carries different risks, so it is worth asking questions and comparing opinions first.
How to protect yourself
- Ask about risks, recovery and aftercare before surgery
- Avoid same-day surgery at a first visit
- Get a second opinion when diagnoses differ
Source: HK01
This is a news summary written by our editors, not medical advice. Please refer to the original source and seek professional advice for your own situation.
Questions readers ask
Could removing a wisdom tooth near the nerve leave me numb?
Numbness of the lower lip or chin can happen. It is usually temporary, but in a few cases it lasts a long time or does not fully recover. Ask the dentist to explain the risk using the X-ray or 3D scan, and how numbness would be followed up.
The dentist wants to take it out at the first visit. Should I agree?
Unless there is an acute infection or severe pain that needs treating now, you can usually learn the risks, cost and recovery first, then go home to think or get a second opinion. The former Hong Kong Dental Association president quoted in the report also said dentists should explain first and let the patient decide.
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