Wisdom Tooth Surgery
Gentle, Expert Wisdom Tooth Surgery for a Healthier, Pain‑Free Smile
From $900 to $1,800 Medisave
Depends on surgical complexity and depth of impaction
Prices are indicative and based on normal case complexity. A consultation is required for a definitive quote.
Wisdom Tooth Surgery
Wisdom tooth surgery may have to be performed if the wisdom tooth is impacted or partially erupted. However, for wisdom teeth that have erupted fully, they can usually be removed with regular extractions by a dentist.
Why Might I Need to Remove My Wisdom Teeth?
There are several reasons for it such as:
Infection and Gum Swelling
Your wisdom tooth may not have sufficient space to erupt fully and may end up being impacted in your jaw. When the tooth is only partially erupted, the gums can become painful and swollen due to infection because it is difficult to brush them and keep the tooth clean. In severe cases, these infections may cause facial swellings or even restrict mouth opening.
Tooth Decay
Being positioned so far at the back of our mouths, wisdom teeth can be hard to brush and floss. This commonly causes tooth decay. If the wisdom tooth is impacted, food also tends to get trapped easily, resulting in the decay of both your upper and lower wisdom tooth and the neighbouring tooth.
Cyst Growing Around the Wisdom Tooth
Cysts may appear when fluid is built up around an unerupted tooth in the jaws. The cysts can become infected, which causes pain and swelling. If left untreated, the cysts can grow larger in size and destroy the jaw bone and roots of the neighbouring teeth. Hence, these cysts should be treated early.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth that have erupted fully can usually be removed with regular extractions. However, surgery may have to be performed if the wisdom tooth is impacted or partially erupted.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get a medical certificate (MC) after wisdom tooth removal?
Generally, five days of MC will be given after a wisdom tooth surgery. For non surgical wisdom tooth removal , generally 2-3 days of MC will be given.
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 anesthesia 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.
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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, 5 to 7 days of medical leave are given for the surgical removal of a wisdom tooth. Discuss this with your dentist during your visit.
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 experience 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 make you more comfortable and help your recovery. By the 3rd day, most patients would be pain-free.
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.
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.
What is the price for wisdom tooth removal and what subsidies are available?
Prices for wisdom teeth removal (per tooth) are: Non-surgical extraction: $190 to $250 (general dentist) or $250 to $400 (specialist oral and maxillofacial surgeon). Surgical removal: $650 to $1550 (general dentist) or $1250 to $1800 (specialist oral and maxillofacial surgeon). Prices do not include general charges such as consultation, medication, X-rays, and GST. CHAS subsidies are available for non-surgical extractions. Medisave is claimable for surgical removal.
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.
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.
