Wisdom Teeth and Notifying DODMERB

hockeygirl

5-Year Member
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Dec 24, 2015
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Unfortunately, my dentist has told me that I need to consider getting my wisdom teeth removed- and based off of some of the posts on this site getting them out before I-day/college is a proactive step. Would this hinder/ slow down/ hurt the waiver process I already have going? What do I need to tell(or ask of) DODMERB?

Thank you!
 
This thread discussed wisdom teeth removal:

https://www.serviceacademyforums.co...medical-exam-allowed.52984/page-2#post-520872

@Capri120 wrote:
Do not fret over wisdom teeth removal. DD had hers removed about two and a half months before I-Day. The rule of thumb for wisdom teeth, provided there are no complications, is eight weeks before I-Day, not 6 months as with other surgeries.

My DS had his out over Christmas break. He is awaiting the results of his DoDMERB, but the doctor who examined him didn't even mention it as a potential issue. It is a common, low risk procedure, generally without complications or lasting effects. Bottom line is, it is important to take care of your health first and not worry about how it might affect scholarship chances. Better to have them out now than to have it become an issue later, just before you report or while you are away from home.
 
For those considering removal: DD's oral surgeon told me that the earlier in life, the better as the jaw bone is softer making removal less painful. According to her, the surgery can be performed at 16 y/o.
 
The form from the SA will say they want to know 'any' change in status since the DoDMERB exam, but after having seen this discussion last year - many people had wisdom teeth extracted and it was not an issue. Just do it well before I Day in case some issues arise.

A long time ago, you were not allowed to graduate from an SA with your wisdom teeth whether they caused problems or not. I think the SA's have lightened up on that over the years.
 
my dentist has told me that I need to consider getting my wisdom teeth removed

You were told you need to "consider"? How urgent or imminent is it?

Please see my previous comment:

https://www.serviceacademyforums.co...g-the-medical-exam-allowed.52984/#post-520504

Not asking you to wait if they need to come out soon, but once you enter USNA or, I believe, any other SA, they don't cost you a penny to come out.

I do believe it's supposed to heal quicker when the wisdom teeth are not protruding or causing pain yet.
 
Last edited:
For those considering removal: DD's oral surgeon told me that the earlier in life, the better as the jaw bone is softer making removal less painful. According to her, the surgery can be performed at 16 y/o.

Both of my middle sons - 17 and 15 1/2 at the time - had their wisdom teeth out last summer per their dentist recommendation. All 4 impacted for both boys. One on a Friday and the other the following Monday. Was easy for both of them although 17 year old had long roots. I was prepared for Armageddon due to my own experience 30 years earlier.
 
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