Psychological Impact of Third Molar Surgery: A 1-Month Prospective Study

Purpose: To prospectively examine the psychological impact of surgical third molar removal, and to identify possible psychological risk factors for the development of dental anxiety and symptoms of psychological trauma. Materials and Methods: Patients (N = 71) scheduled for surgical mandibular third molar removal were assessed regarding operative and psychological variables immediately postoperatively and at 1-week and 1-month follow-up. Results: The emotional impact of the surgical procedure appeared to be modest. Only a small proportion of respondents reported a significant increase in dental anxiety or posttraumatic stress (4.3%) at 1-month follow-up. Conclusions: The results suggest that surgical removal of a third molar by use of local anesthesia, without sedation or general anesthesia, has minimal impact on the development of dental anxiety or symptoms of psychological trauma. Replication of the findings in samples with higher preoperative anxiety levels and with other types of surgical procedures is warranted. (C) 2011 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 69.59-65, 2011