Any time a dentist evaluates the removal of wisdom teeth, several things are always considered. First, is do they really need to come out, and if they are not removed, what is the chance that something bad will happen. Also, what is the risk associated with taking them out. If the risk of removing them is high, and the teeth do not seem to be causing any problems, then it may be easier to just leave well alone. In your case it seems that at least some of your teeth are bothering you. Also in your case, it appears that #17 is close enough to the nerve to warrant further investigation and the use of caution. I would recommend getting the opinion of a qualified oral surgeon and a cone beam image to further evaluate the area and prevent complications. I do not know of, or heard of any technique where you would voluntarily "cut" a nerve, then put it back together again. If a nerve is accidentally or unavoidably cut, then a neuro surgeon would need to be seen. Perhaps this is what the dentist may have been talking to you about.

Kevin Boulard