Research Finds Increased Risk for Older Patients BETTER LATE THAN NEVER?
Wisdom teeth are truly a pain, and not just because they can cause physical discomfort as they grow in. Third molars (3M) can wreak havoc in a patient’s mouth, and the longer a patient holds off on seeking extraction, the more dangerous the surgery becomes. The Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery published a study which looked at 3M complications in elderly patients. The study, conducted by the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at University of Bochum Medical School in Germany, evaluated the perioperative mortality of 3M-extraction surgery in older patients to identify the risks associated with postponing 3M surgery. Researchers compared patients who were at least 65 years old (Group A) with a control group of patients from 15 to 20 years old (Group B). The general health status for each group was defined by the modified Charlson score (MCS) and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score.
ankylosis and nerve proximity, and showed significantly more intraoperative and postoperative complications. As a result, patients in Group A underwent longer operations and remained in the hospital for much longer after surgery than patients in Group B. These findings confirm the greater risk wisdom tooth extraction poses to patients as they get older, suggesting there could be an increase in 3M-related morbidity the longer a patient waits to have the surgery. These risks do not mean patients 65 and older should never have their wisdom teeth removed. Having third molars extracted can help avoid infections, bone loss, or damage to the surrounding teeth. Rather, it is important for patients to have their wisdom teeth removed much sooner in life, if possible. If a patient reaches the age of 50 and they still have their wisdom teeth, they should speak with their general dentist and oral surgeon about the possible risks they face. Together, they can determine if having the patient’s wisdom teeth extracted immediately is the best option to avoid dangers down the road.
During the study, the researchers found patients in Group A needed more antithrombotic agents, had higher rates of
Sautéed Zucchini and SquashWith Feta
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INGREDIENTS Zucchini and summer squash are arriving on grocery store shelves. Here is a great way to take these humble, delicious vegetables to the next level. This easy dish is perfect for early summer. DIRECTIONS
1. Cut zucchini into 1/4-inch-thick semicircles. Dice onion. 2. Heat a large skillet to medium high. Add olive oil, onion, and thyme. 3. Once onion is soft (about 2 minutes), add zucchini and squash. Season with salt and pepper; cook 4–5 minutes until squash barely begins to caramelize. 4. Place in serving bowl and top with feta.
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1 zucchini
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1 summer squash
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1/2 medium red onion
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2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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2 teaspoons fresh thyme
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1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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