Discussing wisdom teeth with patients: a critique of information materials

OBJECTIVE: To assess the quality of information leaflets about third molar extraction. DESIGN: Quality assessment of information leaflets about third molar extraction. We focused particularly on the extent to which they reflect current research evidence. SETTING: All fifteen oral and maxillofacial surgery departments in Scotland were asked to provide copies of existing patient information materials on third molar surgery. RESULTS: Six different leaflets were assessed. Most were apparently intended for people who were about to undergo and/or had just undergone the procedure rather than for people facing decisions about extraction. The leaflets appeared to reflect varying policies about third molar extraction and some of the information provided did not reflect current research evidence. CONCLUSIONS: There is currently a lack of good quality information materials available to people who are considering third molar extraction. It is likely that there are also problems with the quality of other patient information leaflets. Health care professionals need to review the quality of patient information leaflets to ensure that the information provided reflects current research evidence.