Removing the mandibular third molar: neurosensory deficits and consequent litigation

Neurosensory dysfunction, on an iatrogenic basis, appears to be increasing at an alarming rate in the oral surgical section of dental practice. This is particularly so with respect to the impacted lower wisdom tooth. With changing social mores and more sophisticated consumerism, increasing litigious tendencies within the general population and a more informed public, there is a parallel increase in malpractice lawsuits related to this complication. This article presents the documentation supporting this impression and discusses methods of diminishing the likelihood of successful litigation against the dentist. Clinical aspects of mandibular third molar removal are explored with a view to surgical approach and anatomic awareness relevant to the subject. The current status of informed consent is presented, along with one example of a written form which might be applicable under the circumstances.