Gentle, carefully planned care from an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon Sydney
Wisdom Tooth Removal Sydney
Wisdom tooth extractions in Sydney performed by a qualified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. Treatment is carefully planned to reduce risks and support recovery.
Specialist Oral Surgery practice with over 18 years of experience.
Experience the pinnacle of expertise and the smoothest recoveries in Wisdom Tooth Surgery Sydney.
Our practice has been providing Wisdom Teeth Removal in Sydney, for over a decade.
With two established clinics we focus on
- Patient centered care with careful planning.
- Clear communication.
- Highest level of surgical proficiency.
Why Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Around 90% of people have wisdom teeth that don’t have enough space to come through properly. When this happens, they can become trapped in the jawbone or stay partly covered by the gum. These impacted wisdom teeth may:
- Press against neighbouring teeth, sometimes damaging them and leading to root canal treatment
- Cause pain and discomfort
- Trap food and bacteria, leading to infection and decay in both the wisdom teeth and nearby molars
- Lead to cyst formation
- Erode areas of the jawbone
- Rub against the inside of the cheek, causing ulcers
- Increase the risk of swelling, infection, pain, and damage to adjacent teeth
- Be very difficult to keep clean, which can allow infection to spread—even to vital organs like the heart
- Cause crowding, affecting the results of orthodontic treatment
Extraction is recommended when wisdom teeth cause symptoms and show evidence of disease. When you’re young, your tooth roots aren’t fully formed and the surrounding bone is softer. This means you can expect faster healing and less postoperative discomfort.
During your consultation, you will be assessed using imaging and a treatment plan will be outlined, including a discussion of risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision.
What Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Involve?
Wisdom tooth removal is a routine procedure, but each case needs to be planned individually.
Most sets of 4 wisdom teeth extractions take between 10 and 20 minutes depending on how they are positioned.
Anaesthesia is given to ensure comfort. When the surgery is performed in Dr van Mourik’s rooms you can have local sedation. Alternatively where appropriate general anaeshestia is provided in hospital.
A small incision in the gum allows access to the tooth, and in some cases a portion of bone may be removed. Teeth that are difficult to remove in one piece can be divided into smaller sections to assist safe removal.
Dissolving stitches are commonly used to support healing.
Because wisdom teeth sit at the back of the mouth and are often close to the inferior alveolar nerve and major blood vessels, their removal can be technically complex and usually involves the use of imaging.
To minimise trauma and protect the surrounding structures, the procedure needs careful planning and a highly skilled surgeon.
How long does wisdom tooth surgery take?
The time required depends on the position of the teeth and the complexity of the case. For most patients, removal of all four wisdom teeth by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon takes around 10 to 20 minutes, which also helps minimise trauma and promotes faster healing.
Will I be awake during removal of my wisdom teeth?
Anesthetic options will be discussed in your initial appointment.
Due to Dr. van Mourik’s extensive experience in wisdom teeth extraction, many patients can remain awake and comfortable with local anesthesia, which completely numbs the treatment area.
For those feeling anxious, we offer sedation to help you relax during the procedure.
For more complex cases performed in a day hospital, a general anesthetic is administered by a fully qualified anesthetist. Dr van Mourik operates exclusively with Fellows of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anesthetists (FANZCA) to ensure the highest standards of safety and comfort throughout your treatment.
Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Removal Surgery
Day surgery: If you have intravenous sedation or a general anaesthetic, you will need someone to accompany you home. If the procedure is performed under local anaesthetic only, you can usually drive yourself.
Pain management: Discomfort is expected in the first few days. Most patients manage well with common pain relief such as Panadol® or Nurofen®. Applying an ice pack can also help reduce swelling.
Work or school: Plan to take around 7–10 days to rest and recover. The exact amount of time will depend on the number of teeth removed, the complexity of the surgery, and your overall health.
Stitches: Dissolving stitches are used in most cases and typically disappear within one to two weeks.
Diet: Soft foods are recommended for the first few days. By one to two weeks after surgery, most patients are back to a normal diet.
Follow-up: A review with Dr van Mourik’s nurse is arranged to check healing and provide further support if needed.
Dr van Mourik will provide detailed post-operative instructions at your consultation. Following these closely helps reduce the risk of complications and supports a safe recovery.
Costs of Wisdom Teeth Removal in Sydney
The cost of wisdom teeth removal in Sydney varies depending on how many teeth need to be extracted and the complexity of the procedure. Factors such as the position of the teeth, the type of anaesthesia required, and whether the surgery is completed in-clinic or in hospital can also influence overall costs.
Medicare provides a rebate for part of the initial consultation and may cover some hospital-related fees if your procedure is performed in an accredited facility. If an anaesthetist is required, Medicare and your private health insurance may also contribute to their fees, although some out-of-pocket expenses will remain.
After your consultation, you will receive a detailed written quote with item numbers. This allows you to check directly with your private health fund to confirm available rebates and out-of-pocket costs.
While price is an important consideration, it’s equally important to choose an experienced Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon who can perform the procedure safely and provide clear guidance for your recovery.
Why Seeing a Specialist Oral Surgeon Matters
Wisdom teeth removal is more complex than other teeth because of their position at the very back of the mouth and their proximity to nerves and major blood vessels. Selecting a highly trained and experienced surgeon significantly reduces the risk of complications such as excessive bleeding, infection and permanent numbness of the face.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons have the highest level of training and skills in oral surgery, having qualified as a surgeon, a doctor and a dentist.
They regularly remove wisdom teeth types and offer the highest standard of surgical care. An Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon’s approach ensures:
- Surgery performed to the highest technical standard
- The best chance of a smooth recovery and long-term success
- Treatment guided by the most current medical and dental knowledge
- A lower risk of complications
- Specialist medical expertise to manage complications, should they arise
Trust an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon for the best outcomes in your wisdom tooth surgery.
Why choose an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon?
For the highest standard of care and surgical expertise.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons undergo years of specialist training beyond dentistry and general Oral Surgery diplomas. This gives them the expertise in managing wisdom tooth extractions which are more complex than your standard tooth removal.
Does specialist care remove all risks?
No surgical procedure is without risk. However, careful planning and specialist training help to reduce complications and support recovery.
Meet Dr Kristian van Mourik
Meet Dr Kristian van Mourik
Dr Kristian van Mourik is a dual qualified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. He is among the few Oral Surgeons in Australia to hold dual qualifications in both medicine and dentistry, along with specialist surgical training.
His academic background includes:
- Bachelor of Biomedicine – Monash University
- Bachelor of Dentistry with Honours – University of Sydney
- Bachelor of Medicine / Bachelor of Surgery – University of Sydney
Following 14 years of university study and specialist training, Dr van Mourik has had over a decade of private practice experience in Sydney.
Dr van Mourik diagnoses and treats conditions of the mouth, jaws, and face, and performs a range of surgical procedures to restore function and health. His practice includes procedures such as wisdom tooth removal, dental implant placement, corrective jaw surgery, treatment of facial trauma, and management of oral pathology.
Dr van Mourik is registered with both the Medical Board of Australia and the Dental Board of Australia as a specialist Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon.
He has trained and worked in leading hospitals including Royal North Shore Sydney and Royal Adelaide Hospital, of only two Craniofacial Centres of Excellence in the world.
Dr van Mourik is committed to providing patients with clear information, excellent surgical outcomes and comprehensive care throughout their treatment journey.
Wisdom Tooth Removal FAQs Sydney
Common questions from teenagers, parents, and adults planning wisdom tooth extraction
Do all teenagers in Sydney need their wisdom teeth removed?
Not all teenagers require wisdom tooth removal. Many Sydney teenagers are referred for an assessment during their late teens when wisdom teeth first begin to erupt. An early consultation is particularly important for those who have recently completed orthodontic treatment, as impacted wisdom teeth may compromise the results by causing crowding or shifting.
Why do young adults in Sydney often book wisdom tooth removal?
Young adults in their early twenties frequently experience the first signs of impacted wisdom teeth, including jaw discomfort, gum infection, or difficulty cleaning the area. At this stage of life whether at university or starting professional careers — patients often prefer to address the issue promptly to prevent repeated infections and avoid disruption to study or work commitments.
Is it common for older adults in Sydney to need wisdom teeth removed?
Some adults reach their thirties or forties before wisdom teeth become problematic. Removal is still possible at this age but may require a longer recovery. Older patients in Sydney often seek surgery after developing gum infections, cavities in nearby molars, or cysts around unerupted teeth. A consultation helps determine the safest and most appropriate treatment for each case.
Why do parents book consultations for their teenagers?
Parents across Sydney often arrange assessments for their children following advice from a family dentist or orthodontist. Early evaluation provides reassurance and allows any necessary treatment to be planned before wisdom teeth affect orthodontic outcomes or cause repeated infections. Parents in both the Eastern Suburbs and North Shore commonly choose specialist consultation for peace of mind.
How much does wisdom tooth removal cost in Sydney?
Costs vary depending on how many teeth are being removed, their position, and the type of anaesthesia required. Medicare provides a rebate for part of the consultation, and private health funds may contribute to the surgical and anaesthetist fees. Patients are given a detailed written quote to confirm rebates with their fund before treatment proceeds.
Do Sydney patients need time off work or school after wisdom tooth extraction?
Most people need about a week away from regular activities. Teenagers often schedule surgery during school holidays, while university students and young professionals choose quieter times in their schedule to allow recovery. The amount of time required depends on the complexity of surgery and individual healing.
Is wisdom tooth removal different in Sydney compared to other areas?
The procedure itself is the same, but Sydney patients benefit from access to Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons who regularly perform complex extractions in hospital and clinical settings. Having two clinics one in Bondi Junction and one in Lindfield — provides convenient access for patients across the Eastern Suburbs and North Shore.
Areas We Service for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom tooth removal available across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs and North Shore.
Our Sydney Clinics
Bondi Junction
Located in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs, our Bondi Junction clinic is easily accessible by train, bus, and nearby parking.
Lindfield
Conveniently positioned on the North Shore, our Lindfield clinic is close to public transport and offers parking options nearby.