We provide a safe and reassuring place for people who need special care for their wisdom teeth.
Wisdom Teeth Removal on the Gold Coast
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come through right at the back of the mouth. They usually appear between the ages of 16 and 25. For some people they erupt without any trouble. For others, there isn't enough room in the jaw, and the teeth become stuck (impacted) or grow in at an unfavourable angle.
At Define Dental on the Gold Coast, our dentists assess your wisdom teeth and have the technology to take any x-rays that may be necessary. We would then explain what we see on your x-rays and talk you through your options. If removal is recommended, we can often perform wisdom teeth removal in our Benowa clinic. Where a case is more complex, we will refer you to an appropriately qualified and trusted specialist.
Wisdom Teeth Removal on the Gold Coast
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come through, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people they erupt without any trouble. For others, there isn't enough room in the jaw, and the teeth become stuck (impacted) or grow in at an angle.
At Define Dental on the Gold Coast, our dentists assess your wisdom teeth, explain what we see on your X-rays and talk you through your options. If removal is recommended, we can often perform wisdom teeth removal in our Benowa clinic. Where a case is more complex, we will refer you to an appropriately qualified oral surgeon.
Why might wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. We may recommend removal if a wisdom tooth is causing, or is likely to cause, problems such as:
- Infection or inflammation of the gum around a partly erupted tooth (pericoronitis)
- Decay that is difficult to clean or treat because of the tooth's position
- Damage or decay in the neighbouring molar
- Crowding or pressure on nearby teeth
- Cysts or other pathology forming around an impacted tooth
- Ulcers caused by the tooth rubbing against the cheek
Some people notice pain, swelling, a bad taste or difficulty opening their mouth. Others have no symptoms, and problems are only found on an x-ray. Regular check-ups with one of our Gold Coast dentists help pick up these issues early.
Why might wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. Your dentist may recommend removal if a wisdom tooth is causing, or is likely to cause, problems such as:
- Infection or inflammation of the gum around a partly erupted tooth (pericoronitis)
- Decay that is difficult to clean or treat because of the tooth's position
- Damage or decay in the neighbouring molar
- Crowding or pressure on nearby teeth
- Cysts forming around an impacted tooth
- Ulcers caused by the tooth rubbing against the cheek
Some people notice pain, swelling, a bad taste or difficulty opening their mouth. Others have no symptoms, and problems are only found on an X-ray. Regular check-ups with your Gold Coast dentist help pick up these issues early.
Your wisdom teeth assessment
Your first appointment is a consultation. One of our dentists will:
- Examine your mouth and ask about any symptoms
- Take an x-ray, usually an OPG (a panoramic x-ray of the whole jaw), to see the position of the roots, adjacent teeth and nearby nerves
- Assess whether removal is recommended, and why
- Discuss the procedure, options, likely recovery, risks and costs
You will receive a written treatment plan and quote, so you have time to decide. And you’re always welcome to seek a second opinion.
Wisdom teeth removal at Define Dental, Gold Coast
Most wisdom tooth extractions are performed under local anaesthetic, which numbs the area so you don't feel any pain during the procedure, although you may feel some pressure. If they are complex and you’d prefer to be asleep during the procedure then we would organise a general anaesthetic for you by referral to a trusted specialist.
One of our dentists will recommend the approach that suits your teeth, health history and comfort level. The length of the procedure depends on how many teeth are removed and how they are positioned. Our team will keep you informed at each step.
Your wisdom teeth assessment
Your first appointment is a consultation. Your dentist will:
- Examine your mouth and ask about any symptoms
- Take an X-ray, usually an OPG (a panoramic X-ray of the whole jaw), to see the position of the roots and nearby nerves
- Explain whether removal is recommended, and why
- Discuss the procedure, anaesthetic options, likely recovery, risks and costs
You will receive a written treatment plan and quote, so you have time to decide. You are welcome to seek a second opinion.
Wisdom teeth removal at Define Dental, Gold Coast
Most wisdom tooth extractions are performed under local anaesthetic, which numbs the area so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure, although you may feel some pressure. [Confirm: options available in-clinic, e.g. happy gas (nitrous oxide) or oral sedation, and whether IV sedation or general anaesthetic is offered by referral.]
Your dentist will recommend the approach that suits your teeth, health history and comfort level. The length of the procedure depends on how many teeth are removed and how they are positioned. Our team will keep you informed at each step.
Recovery after wisdom teeth removal
It is normal to have some swelling, discomfort and minor bleeding for the first few days. Most people return to their usual activities within a few days to a week, although recovery varies from person to person.
To support healing following extraction of your wisdom teeth:
- Bite gently on gauze to control bleeding
- Use a cold pack on your cheek for the first 24 hours
- Take pain relief and antibiotics as advised by one of our treating dentists
- Eat soft, cool foods and avoid hot drinks for the first day
- Avoid smoking, vaping and alcohol
- Gently rinse with warm salt water from the day after surgery
We will give you thorough written aftercare instructions and a follow-up appointment if needed. Contact us promptly if you have heavy bleeding, increasing pain after day two, fever or swelling that gets worse.
Recovery after wisdom teeth removal
It is normal to have some swelling, discomfort and minor bleeding for the first few days. Most people return to their usual activities within a few days to a week, although recovery varies from person to person.
To support healing:
- Bite gently on gauze to control bleeding
- Use a cold pack on your cheek for the first 24 hours
- Take pain relief as advised by your dentist
- Eat soft, cool foods and avoid hot drinks for the first day
- Avoid smoking, vaping, alcohol and drinking through a straw
- Gently rinse with warm salt water from the day after surgery
We will give you written aftercare instructions and a follow-up appointment if needed. Contact us promptly if you have heavy bleeding, increasing pain after day three, fever or swelling that gets worse.
Risks of wisdom teeth removal
As with any surgical procedure, wisdom tooth removal carries risks. These include dry socket (where the blood clot is lost from the socket), infection, prolonged bleeding, and, less commonly, the potential for nerve damage to occur on some lower wisdom teeth which can cause temporary or permanent numbness of the lip, chin or tongue. One of our dentists will explain the risks that apply to you before treatment.
Risks of wisdom teeth removal
As with any surgical procedure, wisdom tooth removal carries risks. These can include dry socket (where the blood clot is lost from the socket), infection, prolonged bleeding, and, less commonly, temporary or permanent numbness of the lip, chin or tongue due to nerve irritation. Your dentist will explain the risks that apply to you before treatment.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost on the Gold Coast?
The cost varies depending on the difficulty, their position, whether they are impacted and how many teeth are removed. As a rough guide it ranges upward from $350 per tooth. We provide you with a written quote after your assessment.
If you have private health insurance with extras cover, you may be able to claim part of the cost. At Define Dental on the Gold Coast, we have HICAPS on-the-spot claiming for your convenience. Payment plans are also available. See our Finance page for details.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost on the Gold Coast?
The cost depends on how many teeth are removed, whether they are impacted, and the type of anaesthetic or sedation used. We provide a written quote after your assessment.
If you have private health insurance with extras cover, you may be able to claim part of the cost. [Confirm: HICAPS on-the-spot claiming and preferred-provider status.] Payment plans are also available. See our Finance page for details.
Why choose Define Dental as your Gold Coast dentist?
- Located at 12 Carrara Street, Benowa, we’re centrally located and close to Surfers Paradise, Southport, Bundall and Ashmore.
- Our dentists will provide you with consultations that explain your options clearly, with no pressure to proceed
- Assessment and treatment are available in one clinic as we have an on-site OPG x-ray machine and all necessary equipment.
- We have a referral pathway to a trusted specialist oral & maxillofacial surgeon when your case needs it
- We have Payment plans available as well as immediate on the spot HICAPS health fund claiming
Why choose Define Dental as your Gold Coast dentist?
- Located at 12 Carrara Street, Benowa, close to Surfers Paradise, Southport and Bundall
- Consultations that explain your options clearly, with no pressure to proceed
- Assessment and treatment in one clinic, where suitable [confirm: on-site OPG X-ray]
- Referral to an oral surgeon when your case needs it
- Payment plans available [confirm: HICAPS health fund claiming]
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. Wisdom teeth that are healthy, fully erupted and easy to clean can often stay. One of our dentists will monitor them at your regular check-ups.
Will it hurt?
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic during the procedure so it is not painful. Some discomfort and swelling afterwards is common and is usually managed with pain relief. One of our dentists will advise what is suitable for you.
How long does recovery take?
Most people feel close to normal within a few days to a week. Full healing of the gum and bone takes longer.
Can I have all four wisdom teeth removed at once?
Often, yes. Our dentists will discuss whether removing them in one visit or several is better for you.
Do I need a referral for wisdom teeth removal on the Gold Coast?
No referral is needed to see one of our dentists. If your case needs a specialist oral & maxillofacial surgeon, we will arrange the referral for you.
Book a wisdom teeth assessment
If you have pain, swelling or questions about your wisdom teeth, book an assessment with our Gold Coast dentists. At Define Dental on the Gold Coast, we will explain all of your options clearly so you can make the best decision for you.
Book a wisdom teeth assessment
If you have pain, swelling or questions about your wisdom teeth, book an assessment with our Gold Coast dentists. At Define Dental on the Gold Coast, we will explain your options so you can make an informed decision.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
