We will review your medical history, perform an examination, followed by an X-ray to assess the tooth’s position. The findings will guide the recommended procedure.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in individuals between the ages of 17 and 25. As the mouths of most adults can comfortable fit 28 teeth, these additional molars often lack room to grow properly. This can cause them to become impacted, erupt partially or grow at awkward angles. Leading to pain, swelling, infection or crowding of nearby teeth.
Once you are experiencing the symptoms related to impacted wisdom teeth, the damage has already begun. The longer you wait into adulthood, the more difficult the wisdom teeth removal can be and the more damage can be done.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure used to remove one or more wisdom teeth when they cause pain, infection, crowding, or other oral health problems. The treatment helps prevent further complications and protects the health of surrounding teeth and gums.
A wisdom tooth can be removed through a simple extraction or surgical extraction.
The type of extraction needed depends entirely on the tooth's position and condition. Consult a dentist for a thorough diagnosis to determine which procedure is most suitable for you.
We will review your medical history, perform an examination, followed by an X-ray to assess the tooth’s position. The findings will guide the recommended procedure.
Anaesthesia is administered depending on the complexity of your extraction and comfort. Local anaesthesia is used to numb a specific area, whereas general anaesthesia is preferred for more complex cases.
If required in surgical extraction, a small incision is made in the gum and bone may be gently removed to access the affected areas.
The wisdom tooth is loosened and extracted. In surgical extraction, the tooth might be sectioned into smaller pieces using specialised tools.
The extraction site is cleaned and dissolvable or non-dissolvable stitches are placed. Gauze may be applied to control initial bleeding.
You will be allowed to briefly rest in the clinic. Upon discharge, you will be provided with home care instructions including pain management and diet.
Swelling and discomfort are normal in the first few days. Here's what to expect:
Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding hard or spicy foods will support faster healing. Most patients return to normal routines within a week.
Like any surgery, wisdom tooth removal carries potential risks, though they are generally low and manageable with proper care:
Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding hard or spicy foods will support faster healing. Most patients return to normal routines within a week.
Dr Wong is an experienced dental specialist for various complex dental cases, particularly wisdom teeth removal. She qualified from the University of Malaya in 1995 and obtained her Master of Dental Surgery in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery from the National University of Singapore in 2002. Dr Wong is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons and the Academy of Medicine, Singapore. Her expertise covers both simple and surgical extractions, ensuring patients receive safe, precise and comfortable care.
Dr Wong Wai Yee
Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon
With modern anaesthesia techniques, the procedure is relatively pain-free. You may feel some pressure, but no pain during the extraction.
Simple extractions can take as little as 15–30 minutes. Surgical cases may take longer, depending on the tooth's position.
You may need 1–2 days of rest. Most people return to light duties within a few days.
Soft foods like yoghurt, soup, and porridge are recommended for the first few days.
Depending on the complexity of the procedure, 1–3 days of medical leave may be advised.
The exact cost of wisdom tooth removal varies depending on complexity of the case and the type of anaesthesia used. Schedule a consultation at our dental centre to get a personalised quote.
Medisave can only be used for surgical wisdom tooth removal. However, simple, non-surgical extractions are not eligible.