I agree if you are over the sea with a long way to go (or suspecting structural problems exist ) no way. 737NG extend speed is 270KIAS which is below our typical IAS in cruise so if the only problem is getting down I think the gear ( in a 737 short-haul scenario) makes an excellent idea. Don't think you have to worry about extra noise / buffeting upsetting the pax, they will be pretty upset anyhow by whatever demanded the emerg descent )