Surgical wisdom tooth removal in Australia typically costs between $450 and $800+ per tooth, depending on the complexity of the extraction, the type of anaesthesia used, and whether you’re treated by a general dentist or an oral surgeon. This procedure is often necessary for impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth that cannot be removed through a simple extraction.
In this guide, we explain the main factors that affect surgical wisdom tooth removal price, what you can expect during and after the procedure, and how you can make it more affordable, especially if you’re based near Campbelltown, NSW.
How Much Does Surgical Wisdom Tooth Removal Cost in Australia?
Here’s a general estimate for surgical wisdom tooth removal costs across Australian dental clinics:
| Procedure Type | Estimated Price (AUD per tooth) |
| Surgical Extraction (impacted) | $450 – $800+ |
| Surgical Extraction under IV Sedation or GA | $1,000 – $2,500+ |
| Full Mouth Surgical Removal (4 impacted teeth) | $1,600 – $4,000+ |
Note: Prices vary depending on location, complexity, anaesthesia, and whether an oral surgeon is involved. Clinics in regional areas like Campbelltown may offer more affordable pricing than those in city centres.
What Makes Surgical Wisdom Tooth Removal More Expensive Than a Simple Extraction?
Surgical extractions require more time, skill, and resources than standard removals. Here’s why.
1. Impacted or Partially Erupted Teeth
When a wisdom tooth is trapped under the gums or jawbone, the dentist must:
- Make an incision in the gum
- Possibly remove bone tissue
- Section the tooth for easier removal
- Suture the area after extraction
These steps increase the time, tools, and post-operative care involved, which raises the cost.
2. Type of Anaesthesia or Sedation Used
The anaesthetic plan heavily influences pricing:
| Anaesthesia Type | Typical Use | Cost Impact |
| Local anaesthetic | Standard for most surgical removals | Low |
| IV sedation | For anxious patients or complex cases | Medium to High |
| General anaesthetic | In hospital or day-surgery settings | High to Very High |
Some patients opt for IV sedation for comfort. It is safer and more affordable than general anaesthetic but still increases the total cost.
3. Number of Teeth Being Removed
Extracting all four wisdom teeth surgically in one visit often reduces per-tooth costs compared to single visits for each. However, the upfront total is higher due to the added anaesthetic and recovery management.
Cost Breakdown: Dentist vs Oral Surgeon
Not all surgical extractions require an oral surgeon, but complex or deeply impacted teeth often do.
| Provider Type | Typical Cost Range | Notes |
| General Dentist | $450 – $750 | Suitable for most standard surgical extractions |
| Oral Surgeon | $600 – $1,200+ | Required for complex or high-risk cases |
If referred to a specialist, you will usually pay higher surgical fees but benefit from advanced training and sedation options.
Will Medicare Cover Surgical Wisdom Tooth Removal?
In most cases, Medicare does not cover wisdom tooth removal, including surgical procedures. The only exception is when surgery is performed:
- In a public hospital
- Due to a medical emergency
- With a valid referral
Even in these rare cases, waiting lists can be long, and you may still need to cover some out-of-pocket fees.
Can Private Health Insurance Help with Costs?
If you have extras cover, your private health fund may provide rebates for:
- Consultations and X-rays
- Local anaesthetic or IV sedation
- Surgical extraction fees
Check with your insurer for:
- Waiting periods
- Annual limits
- Item numbers covered (such as 322, 324, 311)
At Family Dental Care in Campbelltown, we can help you understand your health fund rebate eligibility and provide itemised quotes using recognised codes.
Can I Find Affordable Surgical Wisdom Tooth Removal Near Me?
Yes. If you’re looking for cheap wisdom tooth extraction in Campbelltown, here are ways to save:
- Choose a regional dental clinic instead of one in a major CBD
- Consider removing multiple teeth in one appointment
- Use payment plans to manage costs over time
- Ask if the clinic offers in-house oral surgeons to avoid referral fees
At Family Dental Care, we offer transparent pricing, same-day appointments for urgent cases, and flexible payment options to suit your budget.
What to Expect Before and After Surgical Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Before the Procedure:
- Panoramic X-ray or OPG to assess tooth position
- Consultation to plan anaesthesia and discuss medical history
- Instructions to prepare for the procedure (such as fasting if sedated)
During the Procedure:
- You will be numbed or sedated depending on your treatment plan
- The dentist will make an incision, remove the tooth, and suture the site
- The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth
Aftercare and Recovery:
- Expect swelling, mild bleeding, and soreness for 2 to 3 days
- Use cold compresses and pain relief medications
- Eat soft foods and avoid hot liquids or vigorous rinsing
- Stitches may dissolve naturally or require a return visit
Recovery Timeline:
| Day | What to Expect |
| Day 1–2 | Swelling, discomfort, limited jaw movement |
| Day 3–5 | Pain subsides, eating becomes easier |
| Day 6+ | Resume normal activities with caution |
Tip: Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully to prevent complications such as dry socket or infection.
Internal Link to Related Resource
Want to understand the full cost comparison between simple and surgical extractions?
Check out our detailed pricing guide:
👉 Extract Wisdom Tooth Price in Australia: What You’ll Really Pay
Quick Summary: Factors That Affect Surgical Wisdom Tooth Removal Price
- Whether the tooth is impacted or erupted
- The type of sedation or anaesthesia used
- Number of wisdom teeth removed at once
- Whether a general dentist or oral surgeon performs the procedure
- Location of the dental clinic (regional vs metro)
- Availability of private health insurance cover or payment plans
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is surgical wisdom tooth removal more expensive?
It requires cutting into the gum or bone, often includes stitches, and usually involves sedation. All of these increase the overall cost.
2. Can I get surgical wisdom teeth removed under sedation?
Yes. IV sedation is commonly used for anxious patients or complex removals and is generally safer than general anaesthesia.
3. How long does it take to recover after surgical extraction?
Most people recover in 3 to 5 days, but complex cases may require up to a week of downtime.
4. Will I be awake during surgical wisdom tooth removal?
If local anaesthesia is used, you will be awake but numb. With IV sedation or general anaesthesia, you will be relaxed or fully unconscious.
5. Can I remove all four wisdom teeth surgically at once?
Yes. Many patients prefer this to save time and money, especially when using sedation or claiming through health insurance.