Emergency Dentistry
Same-day dental care for urgent problems — toothache, a broken or knocked-out tooth, swelling, or a lost filling or crown. Book an urgent slot by region, or call, and we will see you at the nearest available clinic.
Pricing
Surgical removal (per tooth) by a general dentist: $650 to $1,950 — inclusive of medications, X-rays and the review visit.
By a specialist oral & maxillofacial surgeon: $1,250 to $1,800, excluding consultation, medication and X-rays.
For a fully erupted wisdom tooth that can be taken out by simple extraction, see Extractions.
Surgical removal of an impacted wisdom tooth is fully MediSave-claimable — a fixed operation limit from MOH's Table of Surgical Procedures (operations range from $240 to $5,290), plus up to $830 a day in day-surgery facility charges.
Prices are indicative and based on normal case complexity. A consultation is required for a definitive quote.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Cost in Singapore (2026): full fee breakdown →
Wisdom tooth extraction is the surgical removal of a third molar that is impacted, partially erupted, or repeatedly causing problems. It is a minor surgical procedure done under local anaesthesia or sedation, usually in a single appointment. Removal, extraction and wisdom tooth surgery all describe the same treatment.
When a wisdom tooth needs removing
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come through, usually in the late teens or early twenties. There is often not enough room for them, so they come through at an angle, only partly emerge, or stay buried in the jaw. That is what "impacted" means.
Removal is usually advised when the tooth is causing one of the following:
- Infection and gum swelling. A partly erupted wisdom tooth leaves a flap of gum that traps food and bacteria, which can become painful and swollen.
- Tooth decay. A wisdom tooth at the back of the mouth is hard to clean, and decay can affect both it and the healthy molar in front of it.
- A cyst forming around the tooth. A buried wisdom tooth can develop a fluid-filled sac around it, which needs treating.
A wisdom tooth that has come through in a good position, is easy to clean and is causing no symptoms may simply be monitored rather than removed.
Where one has erupted fully and sits upright, it can often be taken out with a simple extraction instead — surgery is for teeth that are impacted or partly through.
What the procedure involves
An X-ray, and sometimes a 3D scan, shows the position of the tooth, how its roots are shaped, and how close it sits to the nerve in the lower jaw. The dentist reviews this before surgery.
The area is numbed with local anaesthesia, or sedation is used if you prefer. The gum is opened over the tooth, the tooth is removed — sectioned into pieces where that makes it easier to lift out — and the site is cleaned and stitched. A single appointment commonly takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the tooth. Any stitches are removed about one to two weeks later.
Cost and MediSave
Wisdom tooth surgery is MediSave-claimable, and the claimable amount depends on the procedure performed. For current fees, what is included, and how MediSave applies, see the wisdom tooth removal cost guide.
Where it is done
Wisdom tooth surgery is offered across our Singapore clinics, with oral surgery cases seen by dentists experienced in surgical removal. Book online, call, or ask on WhatsApp if you are unsure whether your wisdom tooth needs treating.
Who it's for
People with impacted, partially erupted or repeatedly infected wisdom teeth, or a wisdom tooth that is hard to clean and causing problems. An X-ray (sometimes a 3D scan) shows the tooth's position and how close it sits to the nerve. Symptom-free, well-positioned wisdom teeth may simply be monitored.
Time and visits
A single surgical appointment, commonly 30 to 60 minutes depending on the tooth. Any stitches are removed about one to two weeks later.
Recovery and aftercare
Swelling and discomfort are common for a few days and ease over about a week. Soft foods, cold packs and prescribed pain relief help; avoid smoking, vigorous rinsing and strenuous activity early on to protect the healing socket.
Risks and considerations
Temporary swelling, bruising and jaw stiffness are common. Less common are infection and dry socket; for lower wisdom teeth close to a nerve there can be temporary or, rarely, lasting altered sensation in the lip or tongue. The surgeon checks nerve proximity on the X-ray before surgery.
FAQ
Wisdom Tooth Surgery: frequently asked questions
Are there any special oral care instructions I should be aware of after wisdom tooth surgery?
Avoid brushing the surgical site on the day of surgery but be sure to brush and floss the other areas of your mouth as you would normally. You will also be given a mouthwash to help with oral hygiene. The gap at the wisdom tooth site is only temporary, and it will close after a while as the gums heal over it.
How long will wisdom tooth surgery take?
The duration of the surgery ranges between 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the condition and complexity.
Can I participate in sports or physically strenuous activities after wisdom tooth surgery?
We recommend that you avoid physical exertion for the period of medical leave after your surgery, as your body will need rest for the surgical site to heal quickly and smoothly.
What is the process for wisdom tooth surgery?
Local anaesthesia is administered so you feel no pain during the surgery. The dentist opens the gum tissue to remove the tooth, sometimes cutting it into smaller pieces. The gums are then stitched to close the wound. After the surgery, avoid crunchy, chewy, spicy, or acidic foods. Recovery takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the surgery's extent.
Does wisdom tooth extraction hurt?
The actual procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, so you won't feel any pain during the surgery. However, it's common to experience some discomfort and swelling after the procedure. Your oral surgeon will provide appropriate pain management options.
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Is the formation of a blood clot normal after wisdom tooth surgery?
Blood clot formation is necessary to stop bleeding. Please do not touch the surgical site using your fingers or tongue. On the day of the surgery, avoid drinking through straws, rinsing your mouth excessively, or spitting vigorously, as these could affect blood clot formation.
What food can I eat, and what should be avoided after wisdom tooth surgery?
Once the numbness has worn off, it's recommended that you consume something because nourishment is key in the healing process. Take a soft and cool diet that does not require chewing for the first few days (i.e. porridge, oatmeal, milkshake yoghurt, or soup etc.). Avoid hot and spicy foods to reduce irritation of the surgical sites. Smokers should also avoid smoking as it is counterproductive to the healing process.
Can I eat or drink before wisdom tooth surgery?
Your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding fasting before the surgery. Typically, you will be advised not to eat or drink anything for a certain period before the procedure to prevent complications and ensure your safety during anaesthesia.
How many days of medical leave (MC) are given for wisdom tooth surgery?
Generally, about 5 days of medical leave is given after the surgical removal of a wisdom tooth — sometimes up to a week for a complex case. For a simple, non-surgical extraction, it is usually 2 to 3 days. Your dentist confirms the exact number for your case.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth surgery?
The recovery time can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual factors. Generally, it takes about a week to ten days to recover fully. During this time, you may experience some swelling, mild pain, and difficulty opening your mouth fully.
Are there any risks or complications associated with wisdom tooth surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, although they are relatively rare. These can include infection, dry socket (delayed healing), damage to surrounding teeth or nerves, excessive bleeding, or sinus complications. Your oral surgeon will discuss these risks with you beforehand.
How long will swelling or pain last after wisdom tooth surgery?
After wisdom tooth surgery, you will usually have mild pain, swelling and discomfort for a few days. This is normal and limited to the surgical area. You will be given painkillers and other medicine to keep you comfortable and help your recovery, and the discomfort usually eases over the following days.
What is wisdom tooth surgery?
Wisdom tooth surgery, also known as wisdom tooth extraction, is a surgical procedure to remove one or more wisdom teeth (third molars) that may be impacted, causing pain, infections, or other dental problems.
When should I come back to the clinic for stitch removal after wisdom tooth surgery?
Stitches are usually removed 1-2 weeks after surgery. Your dentist will advise you on the exact date during your visit.
Will I need to schedule a follow-up appointment after wisdom tooth surgery?
Yes, your oral surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing progress. They will check the extraction site, remove any stitches if necessary, and address any concerns or questions you may have.
Why are wisdom teeth often removed?
Wisdom teeth are commonly removed due to various reasons, including lack of space in the mouth, impaction (when the tooth doesn't fully emerge), improper alignment, potential damage to nearby teeth, gum disease, or recurrent infections.
My wound is still bleeding after wisdom tooth surgery. Am I required to approach a dentist at once?
It is common to bleed slightly from the surgical site for 1-2 days after surgery. To stop bleeding, place a piece of gauze directly at the surgical site and bite down firmly. Change the gauze every 30 minutes or as needed. Keeping your head elevated with pillows can also help to control bleeding. However, if bleeding continues or increases, please call our dental clinic for advice immediately, and we will be happy to assist you.
Explore
All procedures → Related procedures
Oral Surgery
Surgical procedures of the mouth and jaw, including surgical extractions, wisdom tooth removal, bone grafts and biopsies, under local anaesthesia, sedation or general anaesthesia.
Extractions
Removal of teeth that cannot be saved due to decay, gum disease, fracture or crowding, done under local anaesthesia. Replacement options are discussed before any extraction.
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