Wisdom Teeth Removal
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are your third molars that grow right at the back of your mouth. They usually appear between ages 16 and 25, and most people have four — one in each back corner of the mouth.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Your dentist may recommend removal if your wisdom teeth are:
- Growing at an angle or impacted (stuck under the gum)
- Causing pain, swelling, or jaw stiffness
- Difficult to clean, leading to decay or gum infection
- Crowding or damaging nearby teeth
- Causing cysts or other jaw complications (in rare cases)
What are common signs of wisdom tooth problems?
You might notice tenderness or swelling at the back of your mouth, jaw stiffness, headaches, or persistent bad breath. These symptoms could mean your wisdom teeth are impacted, infected, or causing pressure on nearby teeth.
How do dentists assess wisdom teeth?
At Leeming Dental, your dentist will perform a thorough oral examination and take an OPG X-ray to determine the position of your wisdom teeth, as well as nearby nerves and sinuses. This detailed assessment helps us plan a safe, precise, and comfortable removal.
What happens during wisdom tooth removal?
Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation and preparation – Your dentist will review your X-rays, explain the procedure, and ensure you’re comfortable before starting.
- Anaesthesia – The area will be numbed with local anaesthesia. For more complex cases, sedation or general anaesthesia can also be arranged.
- Tooth removal – Your dentist will gently remove the tooth while minimising any trauma to the surrounding tissues.
- Post-procedure care – Once the tooth is removed, the area will be cleaned and may be stitched if needed. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery.
What is recovery like after wisdom tooth removal?
It’s normal to experience mild swelling or tenderness for a few days after your procedure. Your dentist will provide pain relief and clear aftercare instructions, including tips on eating soft foods and keeping the area clean. Most patients feel comfortable returning to their usual activities within 2–5 days, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
Are there any risks with wisdom teeth removal?
As with any surgical procedure, wisdom tooth removal carries some risks, though they’re uncommon and usually temporary. These may include:
- Dry socket (when a blood clot doesn’t form or heal properly)
- Temporary nerve irritation or numbness
- Sinus communication (for upper wisdom teeth)
- Infection or swelling
Your dentist will carefully explain these risks and take every precaution to ensure your treatment is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Will wisdom tooth extraction hurt?
Your comfort is our priority. Local anaesthesia ensures you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. If you’re feeling anxious, we also offer sedation options to help you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout your visit.
How should I prepare for wisdom tooth removal?
Before your appointment, we’ll provide detailed pre-surgery instructions. If you’re having sedation, you may need to fast for a few hours and arrange for someone to drive you home. Wear comfortable clothing, and be sure to inform us of any medications or medical conditions before your procedure.
How much does wisdom tooth removal cost?
The cost varies depending on the number of teeth to be removed, their position, and whether sedation or general anaesthesia is required. At Leeming Dental, we’ll assess your case with an X-ray and provide a clear, itemised quote before treatment begins—so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Flexible payment options are also available to make your procedure more manageable.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes! We offer convenient, interest-free payment options to make your treatment more affordable. Our Patient Care Coordinator can help you choose a flexible plan that fits comfortably within your budget.
Can my health fund cover wisdom tooth removal?
Very likely! Most private health funds with dental or major dental extras provide rebates for wisdom tooth extractions and oral surgery. Our team can help you check your eligibility and supply the item numbers you’ll need for your claim.
How can I book a wisdom tooth consultation?
You can book online through our website or call our friendly team at +61 (8) 9310 3367. We’ll arrange an appointment, take any necessary X-rays, and guide you through your treatment options.
You can book online through our website or call our friendly team at +61 (8) 9310 3367. We’ll arrange an appointment, take any necessary X-rays, and guide you through your treatment options.