What are wisdom teeth?

Late to arrive, often short on space.

Wisdom teeth (third molars) are the last teeth to develop, usually between the ages of 17 and 25.

For some people there is not enough room for them to erupt normally. They may remain underneath the gum or bone, emerge only partially or grow at an angle. This can contribute to recurrent infection, pain, food trapping, decay or damage to the neighbouring tooth.

Not every wisdom tooth requires removal. Our role is to assess your teeth, explain the risks and benefits and help you decide whether treatment or monitoring is most appropriate.

Why book with us?

Because who removes your wisdom teeth matters.

Your wisdom teeth are in the hands of an experienced Australian-trained and registered Specialist Oral Surgeon, Dr Mark Atkinson.

Wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure for us. Using advanced techniques and a gentle approach, we make the process smooth, comfortable and predictable.

Our clinic is equipped with the latest technology and we offer a range of anaesthetic options including local anaesthetic, sedation and general anaesthetic.

You’ll receive specialist assessment, clear advice and a treatment plan tailored to you, prioritising your safety and individual needs.

Why see a Specialist Oral Surgeon?

Know the difference.

Both General Dentists and Specialist Oral Surgeons can remove wisdom teeth. The main difference is in their training, registration and day-to-day clinical focus.

After qualifying as a dentist, Specialist Oral Surgeons undertake additional postgraduate university and hospital training specifically in oral and dento-alveolar surgery. Wisdom tooth assessment and removal are a core part of their practice, including more complex impactions and the prevention and management of surgical complications. Their training also includes managing patients undergoing surgery with local anaesthetic, sedation and general anaesthetic.

General Dentists (sometimes referred to as Dental Surgeons) also remove wisdom teeth, and many have significant experience doing so. Their training and practice, however, cover the full range of general dental care, so the amount of surgical dentistry they perform can vary between practitioners. When a wisdom tooth is more difficult, deeply impacted or close to important structures such as nerves or the sinus, a dentist may recommend referral to a dental specialist.

A Specialist Oral Surgeon is specifically registered as a dental specialist in Oral Surgery, reflecting additional formal training and a clinical practice focused on surgical care.

The Process

From referral to recovery — we will guide you every step of the way.

We will provide a referral for you to have a full mouth x-ray to examine your jaws, the presence/absence of your wisdom teeth and their relationship to adjacent anatomical structures. This is covered by Medicare (if eligible).
A thorough in-person clinical and radiographic assessment will be performed. We will discuss the findings, answer your questions and create a personalised treatment plan outlining all of your options.
Your wisdom teeth will be removed using the most appropriate and safest technique for your needs. This may include only removing the problematic wisdom teeth or potentially intervening early before any damage is done. This will be performed under local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthetic dependent on the specifics of your case and your preference.
We’ll provide clear aftercare instructions and have an in-person review appointment to ensure you’re healing well. We will be available throughout the recovery period in case a concern arises before your review appointment.

Fees and Private Health

Clear fees. No surprises.

We understand that cost is an important part of planning wisdom teeth removal. Our aim is to make everything straightforward from the beginning, with a clear treatment plan and personalised quote before you decide to proceed.

01 Surgical fee

This covers your wisdom teeth surgery. If you have Private Health Insurance (Dental Extras), you may be able to claim a benefit towards this fee. This is the sole fee if your procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic.

02 Anaesthetist fee

Your specialist anaesthetist charges separately if you decide to proceed with treatment under sedation or general anaesthetic. Private health insurance (Hospital Cover) and Medicare rebates may apply depending on your circumstances and level of cover.

03 Hospital fee

If you choose general anaesthetic, there is a separate day hospital fee. Patients with appropriate Private Health Insurance (Hospital Cover) may receive benefits towards this cost.

Not privately insured?

You can still choose to have your wisdom teeth removed under general anaesthetic. We also operate in a dedicated general anaesthetic facility for dental surgery that participates in the Medicare Gap Rebate Scheme, helping to provide more affordable day-stay options for patients without private hospital cover.

*Private Health Insurance benefits vary between funds, policies, waiting periods and annual limits. We recommend confirming individual entitlements directly with your insurer. Medicare eligibility and rebates also vary depending on the service provided.

Contact Us

Not sure what to do next? Start with a specialist consultation.

Sunshine State Oral Surgery

Suite 305, 621 Gympie Road

Chermside QLD 4032

www.sunshinestateoralsurgery.com.au

07 3319 7731

hello@sunshinestateoralsurgery.com.au