When do wisdom teeth need to be removed?

Wisdom teeth need to be removed when they are impacted (stuck against another tooth or bone), causing recurring infection in the surrounding gum (pericoronitis), pushing on adjacent teeth and causing crowding, developing decay that cannot be restored due to position, or forming a cyst around the unerupted tooth. Not all wisdom teeth need removal - fully erupted, functional wisdom teeth that are easy to clean can stay. Your dentist will assess with an OPG (panoramic) X-ray.

How much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Pakenham?

Indicative costs at a Pakenham dentist: simple extraction of an erupted wisdom tooth is approximately $250–$350 per tooth. Surgical extraction of a partially erupted or soft-tissue impacted wisdom tooth is approximately $400–$600. Full surgical removal of a bony-impacted wisdom tooth is approximately $600–$900+ per tooth. These are full fees before health-fund rebates. With HICAPS on-the-spot claiming, the out-of-pocket gap is typically 40–60% less. An OPG X-ray ($80–$120) is usually needed before the procedure.

What is the recovery time after wisdom teeth removal?

Most patients return to normal activities within 3–5 days for a simple extraction and 7–10 days for surgical removal. Swelling peaks at 48–72 hours then gradually subsides. Stitches (if placed) are usually dissolvable and disappear within 7–14 days. Full bone healing of the socket takes 6–8 weeks, but this happens under the gum and does not affect daily life. Most people take 1–3 days off work depending on the complexity.

Can all four wisdom teeth be removed at once?

Yes, all four wisdom teeth can be removed in a single appointment under local anaesthetic with or without sedation. Many patients prefer this approach to avoid multiple procedures and recovery periods. Your dentist will assess whether single-session removal is appropriate based on the complexity of each tooth, your medical history, and your anxiety level. For very complex cases (deeply impacted in bone on both sides), your dentist may recommend two sessions.

What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?

For the first 24–48 hours: cold soft foods only - yoghurt, smoothies (no straw - suction can dislodge the blood clot), mashed potato, scrambled eggs, soup (lukewarm, not hot). Days 3–7: soft foods that require minimal chewing - pasta, soft bread, banana, avocado, well-cooked vegetables. Avoid crunchy, spicy, acidic, or very hot foods for at least 7 days. Do not smoke for at least 72 hours - smoking dramatically increases the risk of dry socket.

What is dry socket and how do I prevent it?

Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot in the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves before the wound has healed, exposing the underlying bone and nerve. It causes intense, throbbing pain 2–4 days after extraction. To prevent it: do not smoke, do not use straws, do not spit forcefully, do not rinse vigorously for 24 hours, avoid alcohol for 48 hours, and follow your dentist's post-operative instructions exactly. If you develop worsening pain after day 2, contact your dentist - dry socket is treatable with a medicated dressing.

Does Pakenham Creek Family Dentist remove wisdom teeth?

Yes. Pakenham Creek Family Dentist performs both simple and surgical wisdom teeth extractions under local anaesthetic with sedation options for nervous patients. An OPG X-ray is taken to assess the position, root shape, and proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve before recommending a treatment plan. For extremely complex cases (e.g. wisdom tooth roots wrapped around the nerve canal), the practice refers to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Phone (03) 5940 1110 to book an assessment.