Tooth Extractions: What to Expect, Recovery, and When Wisdom Teeth Need Removal

emmanuelr131
Aug 29
3 min read

Updated: Sep 11

While our goal at Greenbank Family Dental is always to save teeth wherever possible, sometimes an extraction is the healthiest option. Situations may include:

Severe decay or infection that can’t be restored.
Broken or damaged teeth that cannot be repaired with a filling or crown.
Wisdom teeth causing pain, infection, or crowding.
Orthodontic reasons, where extra space is needed for alignment.

Removing a problem tooth helps protect your overall oral health and prevent further complications.

What happens during an extraction

Your comfort is our priority. Here’s what you can expect:

Local anaesthetic — the area around your tooth is numbed so you feel no pain.
Gentle removal — the dentist carefully loosens the tooth before removing it.
For wisdom teeth — sometimes a small surgical approach is needed if the tooth is impacted.
Finishing care — gauze is placed to help control bleeding, and aftercare instructions are explained.

Most extractions are quick, straightforward, and easier than many patients expect.

Aftercare and recovery

A smooth recovery depends on good aftercare. Our team will provide a personalised guide, but in general:

Bite gently on gauze to control bleeding.
Take pain relief as advised.
Apply an ice pack if swelling occurs.
Stick to soft foods for a few days.
Avoid smoking, alcohol, or drinking through a straw during healing.

Healing time varies, but most patients feel comfortable again within a few days to a week.

Wisdom teeth: when to remove

Wisdom teeth are the last to erupt, usually in the late teens or early 20s. Not all need removal, but extraction may be recommended if:

The tooth is impacted (stuck under the gum or growing sideways).
It causes pain, infection, or swelling.
It places pressure on neighbouring teeth or affects your bite.
Decay or gum issues develop due to difficulty cleaning around them.

At Greenbank Family Dental, we manage routine wisdom tooth extractions in-house. For complex cases — such as deeply impacted wisdom teeth or those close to nerves and sinuses — we’ll refer you to a trusted local oral surgeon or specialist to ensure the safest and most predictable outcome.

Costs and rebates

Simple extractions (311): ~$215–$300
Wisdom teeth (311–324 depending on complexity): costs vary with difficulty.
Covered by most health funds, CDBS for eligible children, and DVA.

We’ll always provide a clear quote before treatment.

FAQ

Is a tooth extraction painful?

No. Local anaesthetic ensures the procedure itself is painless. You may feel some pressure but not pain.

How long does recovery take?

Most patients feel comfortable again within a few days. Wisdom teeth may take longer depending on complexity.

Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?

No. Some grow in without issues. We only recommend removal if they cause pain, damage, or other dental problems.

Will Medicare cover extractions?

Medicare does not cover adult extractions in private practice. Eligible children may be covered under CDBS, and DVA entitlements apply for veterans.

Our promise at GFD

At Greenbank Family Dental, we take a gentle, supportive approach to extractions. We explain every step, use modern techniques for comfort, and provide thorough aftercare instructions so you feel confident about recovery.

For complex wisdom tooth cases, we partner with trusted local specialists. This ensures you receive the right care in the right setting, while we continue to support your follow-up and long-term oral health.