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Wisdom Teeth Removal Melbourne

Your questions answered about wisdom teeth removal procedures

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Consulting at

Box Hill

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Consulting at

Springvale

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Consulting at

Glen Iris

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Consulting at

Werribee

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Call us

(03) 9731 8700

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Consulting at

Werribee

Glen Iris

Springvale

Box Hill

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Call us

(03) 9731 8700

Oral and Facial Surgery Specialists
Oral and Facial Surgery Specialists
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Understanding Wisdom Teeth Removal

Q&As for Wisdom Teeth Removal in Melbourne

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 22. These teeth sit at the very back of your mouth — two on the top and two on the bottom. While some people don’t notice any issues when these teeth grow in, others may find there isn’t enough room in the jaw. This lack of space can lead to crowding, gum tenderness, or even decay in nearby teeth.

Because they’re located so far back, wisdom teeth are harder to clean properly. Food and plaque can easily collect around them, which raises the chances of tooth decay and gum disease. That’s why regular dental check-ups during this period are important — they help monitor their development and catch any problems early.

Having your wisdom teeth assessed in your late teens can help prevent bigger issues down the track. Early checks make it easier to spot problems before decay or lasting damage sets in.

 

A/Prof Felix Sim - Oral & Facial Surgery Specialists, Maxillofacial surgeon Melbourne

Dr Felix Sim

Maxillofacial Surgeon Melbourne

When wisdom teeth start causing trouble, you might notice:
  • Pain or swelling: Often felt at the back of the mouth or along the jaw, usually from infection.
  • Bad breath: Caused by food and bacteria getting stuck around the tooth.
  • Jaw stiffness: Swollen gums can make it harder to open your mouth fully.
  • Head or ear pain: This can be referred pain coming from the tooth itself.
  • Sensitivity to cold: Might mean there’s decay in the tooth.
If you’re dealing with any of these, don’t wait for it to get worse. Spotting issues early makes treatment easier. The team at Oral & Facial Surgery Specialists is here to help. Book a consultation today.
When wisdom teeth aren’t treated, they can lead to several complications:
  • Impaction: Wisdom teeth can get stuck in the jaw or gums, causing discomfort, infection, or damage to nearby teeth.
  • Cyst formation: Cysts may develop around impacted teeth, which can harm surrounding bone and nearby teeth.
  • Tooth decay: It’s hard to clean between the wisdom tooth and the second molar, making decay more likely in that area.
  • Gum disease: Impacted or partially emerged wisdom teeth often trap bacteria, which can lead to gum and bone issues around nearby teeth.
You might be asking, “Is there anything I can do before committing to wisdom teeth removal?” The answer is yes. If you’re dealing with sudden pain or swelling, there are a few ways to manage things short term:
  • Pain relief and mouth rinses: Over-the-counter pain meds and antiseptic mouthwashes can reduce pain and help keep the area clean.
  • Antibiotics: If there’s an infection, a short course of antibiotics might be prescribed to bring the swelling down and clear bacteria.
Keep in mind, though—these are just temporary fixes. If the symptoms keep coming back, surgery is often the next step to avoid more serious issues.
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Maxillofacial Surgeon Melbourne for Wisdom Teeth

Why it’s better to remove wisdom teeth early

Dentists often recommend removing impacted wisdom teeth early—even before any lasting damage occurs.

Choosing to remove impacted wisdom teeth between ages 17 and 24 is usually easier on the body. Recovery tends to be quicker, with fewer complications than if removed later in life.
Dr Jarren Wang - Oral & Facial Surgery Specialists, Maxillofacial surgeon Melbourne

Dr Jarren Wang

Maxillofacial Surgeon Melbourne

  • Lower risk of complications: Taking out wisdom teeth before roots fully develop often means quicker healing and less chance of nerve issues or infection.
  • Helps prevent crowding: Orthodontists often suggest removal after braces to keep teeth aligned.
  • Protects nearby teeth: Removing them early can stop pressure on neighbouring molars, which may otherwise lead to damage or decay.
Like any surgery, having your wisdom teeth removed does come with some risks, such as:
  • Bleeding: Mild bleeding is normal and usually settles within a few hours.
  • Infection: Rare, but possible—especially if the area isn’t kept clean after surgery.
  • Dry socket: A painful issue where the protective blood clot comes loose, exposing bone and nerves underneath.
  • Nerve damage: Lower wisdom teeth carry a small risk of nerve injury, which may cause numbness or tingling in the lips, chin, or tongue. This is usually temporary.
That said, complications are uncommon—especially when the procedure is done by a skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Several factors can affect how much wisdom teeth removal costs. You can find more details on this cost breakdown page.
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Recovery Wisdom Teeth Removal Melbourne

What to expect after surgery

Recovery after wisdom teeth removal usually takes a few days to a week, depending on how complex the procedure was. Here’s what to expect and how to care for yourself:
  • Swelling and soreness: Expect some swelling, especially in the first 2–3 days. Applying an ice pack can help bring it down.
  • Pain relief: You’ll likely be given pain medication—take it as directed, and try to rest with your head slightly raised.
  • Eating: Stick to soft foods at first—things like soup, yoghurt, or porridge. Avoid anything spicy or crunchy that might irritate the area.
  • Keeping it clean: After 24 hours, gentle saltwater rinses help keep the area clean. Avoid brushing directly over the extraction sites for a few days.
  • Back to normal: Most people are back to their usual routine within a week, as long as they follow the care instructions closely.
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Wisdom Teeth Removal Melbourne

Why choose Oral & Facial Surgery Specialists?

At Oral & Facial Surgery Specialists in Melbourne, your care comes first. Our experienced team of oral and maxillofacial surgeons handles everything from straightforward wisdom teeth removal to more complex jaw procedures. We focus on clear communication, tailored treatment plans, and keeping you as comfortable as possible throughout your visit. With clinics in Werribee, Glen Iris, Springvale, and Box Hill, expert care is always nearby. We’re trusted by local dentists and GPs who regularly refer their patients to us. It’s not just about delivering great clinical results—it’s about making sure you feel supported every step of the way. Book your consultation today.
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Recovery Wisdom Teeth Removal Melbourne

What to expect after surgery

You’ll find us at four Melbourne locations—Werribee, Glen Iris, Springvale, and Box Hill. To make an appointment, simply give us a call or fill out our online form.
It’s normal to feel some discomfort while healing, but pain relief medication can help manage it. Swelling often happens too—ice packs can bring it down. Our oral surgeons focus on keeping you as comfortable as possible during the procedure.
It depends on how complex the case is. Simple extractions might take just 15–30 minutes, while more involved ones can take longer. Your surgeon will explain what to expect during your first consultation.
You don’t need a referral to see our specialist surgeons. But keep in mind—without one, you won’t be able to claim Medicare benefits for your consultation.
The cost depends on how complex the extraction is and whether you go with local or general anaesthetic. We’ll give you a detailed quote at your first consultation. You can also find more information on this wisdom teeth removal cost page.
Many dentists are well-equipped to handle simple wisdom tooth extractions. But for more complex cases—like impacted teeth or when several teeth need to be removed—they often refer patients to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Our specialists have extensive experience with these procedures and can carry them out efficiently, often with options like sedation or general anaesthesia in a private hospital setting. We also work closely with your dentist to make sure your treatment is tailored to your individual needs.

Most people take 2–3 days off, but it really depends on how you’re feeling and how complex the procedure was. To be safe, it’s a good idea to allow up to a week for recovery.

 
 
 
Yes, if you’re having sedation or general anaesthetic, you’ll need someone to drive you home. It’s also a good idea to have someone with you for support during the first day.

You can begin brushing your teeth the day after surgery—just be gentle around the areas where the teeth were removed.

 
 
 
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