Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to come through, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Many people have no room for them, so they come through at an angle, only partly erupt or stay trapped under the gum. If that’s happening to you, one of the first questions is usually what removal will cost. This guide explains the price range at Hornsby Dental, what changes the price, and what health funds usually cover.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Hornsby?
At Hornsby Dental, tooth extractions, including wisdom teeth, range from $200 to $600 per tooth, depending on how complex the removal is. A wisdom tooth that has fully come through and has straight roots sits at the lower end. A tooth that is impacted, partly covered by bone or close to the nerve takes longer and sits at the higher end.
You’ll get a written quote after an examination and x-ray, before any treatment starts, so you know the cost upfront. See our dental price list for other treatment prices.
What affects the price?
- How the tooth sits. A tooth that has fully erupted can often be removed like any other tooth. An impacted tooth may need a small cut in the gum, removal of a little bone, or the tooth taken out in sections.
- Upper or lower jaw. Lower wisdom teeth are usually more involved than upper ones because the bone is denser and the nerve runs nearby.
- Root shape. Curved or long roots take more time to remove safely.
- How many teeth. Some people need one tooth removed, others need all four. Your dentist will explain whether removing several in one visit suits you.
- Sedation. Happy gas (nitrous oxide) is available for anxious patients and is quoted separately.
Do I need my wisdom teeth removed?
Not always. Wisdom teeth that have come through straight, can be cleaned properly and aren’t causing problems can often stay. Your dentist may recommend removal if a wisdom tooth is:
- causing repeated gum infections (pericoronitis) or swelling at the back of the mouth
- decayed and hard to clean or fill
- pushing against the tooth in front and causing decay or damage there
- linked to a cyst or other changes seen on an x-ray.
The examination and x-ray show how the tooth sits and how close the roots are to the nerve. If removal would be better done by an oral surgeon, your dentist will explain why and refer you.
What happens on the day
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain. Your dentist then gently loosens and removes the tooth. A simple removal can take around 20 minutes; a more complex one takes longer. You’ll go home with written aftercare instructions and a number to call if you have any concerns.
Recovery
Most people feel sore and a little swollen for two to four days. To help healing:
- rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous exercise for a couple of days
- don’t rinse, spit forcefully or drink through a straw for the first 24 hours
- eat soft foods and chew on the other side
- avoid smoking and vaping, which slow healing and raise the risk of dry socket
- take pain relief as advised by your dentist.
Call us on (02) 8090 1100 if pain gets worse after day three, if bleeding won’t stop, or if you notice fever or a bad taste. Read more in our guide to wisdom teeth removal in Hornsby.
Will my health fund cover it?
Extractions are usually claimable under extras cover with general dental, though some funds class surgical removal under major dental. How much you get back depends on your fund, your level of cover and any waiting periods. We can process your claim on the day with HICAPS, so you only pay the gap. Ask us for the item numbers on your quote and check with your fund before your appointment.
FAQs
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
The removal itself is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel sharp pain. Soreness afterwards is normal for a few days and is usually managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does wisdom tooth removal take?
A straightforward removal can take around 20 minutes. Impacted teeth take longer. Your dentist will tell you how long to allow when they give you your quote.
Can all four wisdom teeth be removed at once?
Sometimes. It depends on how the teeth sit, your medical history and your preference. Your dentist will talk you through the options.
What if my wisdom tooth is hurting right now?
Call us on (02) 8090 1100. We keep time aside for emergency dental appointments in Hornsby.
Book a wisdom teeth assessment in Hornsby
Hornsby Dental is at Suite 21, 14 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby, three minutes’ walk from Hornsby Station, with free street parking and Saturday appointments. Call (02) 8090 1100 or book online.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.