I know you get wisdom teeth questions a lot so I apologize and I really
expect no replies so don't feel bad. I know ultimately this becomes an
issue/conversation between me, my dentist, and my orthodontist.

I've been chewing a lot of gum lately and I've noticed two
problems...1) I miss the gum a lot and my poor cheeks have been bitten,
and 2) The area above where I guess my wisdom teeth have yet to arrive
hurt sometimes, especially after chewing a while.

We've held off on taking them out, even though my orthodontist doesn't
want his precious work ruined. My dentist said we'll wait to address
the issue until they start bothering me. What qualifies as "bothering
me"?  I'll bring it up with him, but I'm not too keen on going through
extraction right now. However, I do have to keep in mind that my
insurance will run out in 3 years since I'll be 23 then and thus not
covered anymore, I'm pretty sure.

The only reasons I'm hesitating is due to my needle issues/problems
with anethesia (apparently I have thrown up while under general
before), and pain tolerance issues. I also have a chronic illness and
simple things can get to me...I've been through a lot in the last few
years and I don't know much how much more abuse I can take. I have some
TMJ-y thing and my jaw isn't happy being open too long. (Consult at
UMDNJ said "well if it hurts to open it that much...don't! good
answer.)

So, when do wisdom teeth become a problem? I wear my retainer some
nights...the teeth don't look like they're shifting yet...
I hate to give up the gum (sometimes it's the only thing that calms my
stomach) but would stopping with that help? Should I just be vigilant
for a while? The soonest I could do this is May anyway, and it's
unlikely even then. Hmmm. Oh, and I don't know how big they really are
(I've seen xrays that make them look HUGE), but I somehow doubt I have
enough gum-space for them.