Tooth Extraction Cost

If you’re searching for tooth extraction cost, you’re probably trying to work out two things: what you might pay in Australia, and why prices can vary so much from one person (or one tooth) to the next. The honest answer is that a simple, straightforward extraction is usually far more affordable than a surgical extraction – and the difference is mostly about difficulty and risk, not “who has the more expensive clinic”.

In this guide, we’ll explain typical price ranges, what’s included in the fee, and the factors that influence the final tooth extraction price. We’ll also cover private health insurance, Medicare and NSW public options, wisdom teeth pricing, and what to ask your dentist before you book. If you’re in Warrawong or Wollongong, you’ll also find practical local guidance on when to act early and when to seek urgent care.

Quick answers: tooth extraction cost in Australia

• Indicative price ranges (these vary by case and clinic):
• Simple extraction (visible tooth): often around $150-$250+ per tooth
  
• Surgical extraction: often around $300-$600+ per tooth
  
• Wisdom tooth extraction cost: commonly $200-$600 for simple and $400-$1,200+ for complex surgical cases
  (Hospital/GA cases can be higher due to facility and anaesthetist fees.)
  

Why the range is so wide: the cost of tooth removal depends less on which tooth it is and more on how difficult it is to remove safely, and what support is needed (imaging, surgical technique, sedation, and aftercare).

Key takeaway: an accurate quote usually requires an exam and X-ray, because a tooth that looks “easy” can sometimes be complex underneath the gum.

What you’re paying for (it’s not just “pulling a tooth”)

Tooth extraction is a controlled dental procedure designed to remove the tooth while protecting the surrounding bone, gums, nerves and neighbouring teeth. Even a “simple” extraction includes careful steps to keep you safe and comfortable.

A typical extraction fee may include:

• A clinical assessment (including medical history and medications)

• X-rays to check the root shape, infection, bone levels, and nerve/sinus proximity

• Local anaesthetic (and sometimes extra numbing techniques if needed)

• Sterile set-up and instruments

• The dentist’s time and skill to remove the tooth with minimal trauma

• Bleeding control and wound management (sometimes stitches)

• Clear aftercare instructions to reduce complication risk

If the tooth is infected, broken down, impacted, or close to important anatomy, the appointment can require more planning and a more surgical approach – which affects the overall tooth extraction cost.

Simple vs surgical extraction: the biggest driver of price

Simple extraction (usually lower cost)

A simple extraction is more likely when the tooth is:

• Fully visible above the gum

• Not heavily broken down

• Not impacted

• Relatively accessible, with straightforward roots

Most simple extractions are done with local anaesthetic and are relatively quick once you’re properly numb.

Surgical extraction (usually higher cost)

A surgical extraction may be needed when:

• The tooth is impacted (common with wisdom teeth)

• The tooth has broken at the gumline

• Roots are curved, fragile, fused, or difficult to grip

• There’s significant infection or swelling

• The dentist needs to remove some bone or section the tooth (remove it in pieces)

• Stitches are needed to help the gum heal well

Surgical extractions take longer and require additional technique, instruments, and sometimes additional anaesthetic support.

Key takeaway: The difference in pricing usually reflects complexity, time, equipment, and clinical risk – not a “one size fits all” fee.

10 factors that affect tooth extraction price and why

1) Tooth position (front vs back)

Back teeth (molars) are harder to reach, often have multiple roots, and can be close to nerves or sinuses. This can increase the difficulty and therefore the cost.

2) Root shape and number of roots

Long, curved, hooked or divergent roots can make removal more complex. Two people can both be removing “a molar”, but one may have simple roots and the other may have roots that require careful sectioning.

3) Tooth condition (intact vs heavily decayed)

A tooth that’s crumbling can be harder to grip and remove in one piece. If it breaks during removal, the procedure becomes more surgical.

4) Gum and bone support

Some teeth are tight in dense bone. Others have reduced support due to gum disease. Either situation can change the approach and time needed.

5) Infection and inflammation

Active infection can make it harder to numb the area and can complicate healing. Your dentist may recommend antibiotics only when clinically indicated, or staged treatment if swelling is severe.

6) Impacted wisdom teeth

Your wisdom tooth extraction cost depends heavily on whether the tooth is:

• Fully erupted (often simpler)
  
• Partially erupted (more infection risk, can be tricky)
  
• Fully impacted (often surgical, sometimes close to nerves)
  

7) Imaging needs

Many extractions require standard dental X-rays. In some situations, additional imaging may be recommended to assess complexity (for example, root position near a nerve).

8) Anaesthetic and sedation options

Some patients manage well with local anaesthetic. Others may prefer sedation support, depending on anxiety, gag reflex, medical considerations, or complexity.

Sedation may include:

• Local anaesthetic (most common)
  
• Oral sedation (selected cases)
  
• IV sedation (selected cases)
  
• Hospital-based general anaesthetic (selected cases)
  

More sedation generally means more staffing, monitoring, and possibly facility fees  which can significantly change the total cost.

9) Who performs the extraction

General dentists handle many extractions. Complex surgical cases may involve referral to an oral surgeon. Specialist care can have different fee structures.

10) What happens after the extraction

If the tooth affects your chewing or appearance, you may also plan for replacement options such as:

• Dental implant
  
• Bridge
  
• Partial denture
  

Replacement isn’t always urgent, but planning early helps avoid rushed decisions later.

Tooth extraction cost “builder”: how quotes are usually structured

One helpful way to think about the cost of tooth removal is:

Base procedure (simple extraction)
Plus any required add-ons, such as:

• Surgical technique (sectioning, bone removal, stitches)
  
• Additional imaging where clinically needed
  
• Sedation support
  
• Specialist referral
  
• Infection management and follow-up
  
• Planning for replacement (if relevant)
  

If you’ve been told, “It might be simple, but we need an X-ray,” that’s not a sales tactic – it’s because the root shape and position below the gumline often determines the difficulty.

What’s usually included in a quote and what to ask to avoid surprises

Not all quotes are structured the same way, so it’s smart to ask what’s included.

Before you proceed, ask your dentist:

• Is this likely to be a simple or surgical extraction, and why?

• Does the quote include the exam and X-rays?

• Is local anaesthetic included?

• If stitches are needed, is that included?

• Is a review appointment included or separate?

• If I need sedation, what are the costs and who provides it?

• What are the aftercare costs (for example, dressings if dry socket occurs)?

• If the tooth is removed, what are my replacement options and timelines?

Tip for patients in Warrawong and Wollongong: If you’re comparing quotes, make sure you’re comparing like-for-like. Two prices can look different simply because one includes X-rays and review, while another lists those separately.

Wisdom tooth extraction cost: why it’s often more expensive

Wisdom teeth are the most common “high-variation” extraction because they’re unpredictable. Some erupt normally and can be removed simply. Others are angled, partially erupted, or fully impacted in bone.

Common wisdom tooth scenarios (and what they mean for cost)

• Erupted wisdom tooth: often closer to a simple extraction if it’s accessible
  
• Partially erupted wisdom tooth: may involve gum infection (pericoronitis) and can require a more surgical approach
  
• Fully impacted wisdom tooth: often surgical, sometimes requiring sectioning and stitches
  
• Lower wisdom teeth near nerves: may require extra planning and discussion of risks
  

Sedation can also be a factor for wisdom teeth, especially if you’re removing more than one tooth in a single appointment.

Can private health insurance reduce tooth extraction cost?

Sometimes, yes – but it depends on your level of cover, waiting periods and annual limits.

In general:

• Extras cover may contribute towards general dental services like exams, X-rays, and extractions (up to your annual limit).

• Rebates vary widely by fund and policy.

• Some funds have preferred provider arrangements that may change your out-of-pocket costs.

What to do before your appointment: call your fund and ask:

• Am I covered for extractions under my extras policy?
  
• What are my remaining limits this year?
  
• Are there waiting periods?
  
• Do I need the dental item numbers to confirm rebates?
  

Your dental team can often help you understand what’s involved clinically, while your insurer confirms what they’ll pay.

Does Medicare cover tooth extractions in Australia?

For most adults, routine dental treatment isn’t covered by Medicare. However, some people may have options through:

Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)

Eligible children can receive benefits for basic dental services up to a capped amount across a two-year period (eligibility rules apply). This may include certain extractions.

NSW public dental services (eligibility applies)

Eligible NSW residents (often those with specific concession cards or criteria) may access public dental services. Wait times can apply depending on urgency and local demand.

 

Tooth extraction in Warrawong and Wollongong: what locals should know

In Warrawong and Wollongong, we often see two common situations:

1. Patients trying to manage pain for weeks (or months) with pain relief and soft foods.

2. Patients who want to avoid “big procedures” and hope a tooth will settle down.

The problem is that delaying treatment can sometimes make the extraction more complex. For example, infection can spread, swelling can increase, and the tooth can break down further – turning a potentially simple extraction into a surgical one. That’s one of the biggest real-world reasons tooth extraction costs can rise over time.

If you’re local and unsure, a short consult with your dentist in Wollongong or Warrawong can often clarify:

• Whether the tooth is savable
  
• Whether extraction is the best option
  
• Whether the procedure looks simple or surgical
  
• What the likely costs and next steps are
  

What happens during a tooth extraction?

While every case is different, most extractions follow a similar process:

1. Assessment and X-ray
   Your dentist checks the tooth, gum health, and surrounding structures.
   
2. Numbing (local anaesthetic)
   The goal is comfort. You’ll feel pressure, but you shouldn’t feel sharp pain.
   
3. Controlled loosening and removal
   The tooth is gently mobilised and removed with as little trauma as possible.
   
4. Cleaning and stabilising the site
   The area is cleaned, and bleeding is controlled. Stitches may be placed if needed.
   
5. Aftercare instructions and planning
   You’ll be given advice on eating, cleaning, pain relief, and what to watch for.

Simple extractions are often quicker once numbness is achieved. Surgical cases can take longer because the dentist needs to access the tooth carefully and protect nearby structures.

Recovery and aftercare: how to reduce the risk of complications and extra visits

Most patients heal well after an extraction, but aftercare matters. Good aftercare doesn’t just improve comfort – it can also reduce the chance of needing extra appointments (and added costs).

Normal after-effects

• Mild oozing in the first 24 hours
  
• Swelling for 1-3 days
  
• Tenderness when chewing
  
• A gradual improvement each day
  

Tips to support healing

• Bite firmly on gauze as advised
  
• Avoid smoking or vaping (this is a major dry socket risk)
  
• Avoid vigorous rinsing for the first day
  
• Stick to soft foods and avoid crunchy, sharp foods near the site
  
• Follow your dentist’s advice on cleaning and any mouth rinses

When to contact your dentist

• Pain that gets worse after 2-4 days (possible dry socket)
  
• Fever or increasing swelling
  
• Bad taste or pus
  
• Bleeding that won’t settle after following instructions
  

Patient scenario (very common):
Someone cracks a molar, it becomes painful, then settles. Weeks later it flares again with swelling. By the time they come in, the tooth is too broken down to grip easily and the gum is inflamed – so what could have been a straightforward removal may require a more surgical approach. Acting earlier often gives you more options and a smoother experience.

Are there cheaper alternatives to extraction?

Sometimes. If a tooth can be saved, it may be worth discussing options even if extraction seems like the quickest fix. Your dentist will usually consider how much healthy tooth structure is left, infection severity, and long-term predictability.

Common alternatives (when appropriate)

• Filling: for small to moderate decay
  
• Crown: for heavily restored or cracked teeth with enough structure to rebuild
  
• Root canal treatment: if the nerve is infected but the tooth can still be restored
  

These options may cost more upfront than extraction, but can preserve your natural tooth and reduce the need for tooth replacement later.

When extraction is often the best option

Extraction may be recommended if the tooth is:

• Too broken down to restore predictably
  
• Cracked below the gumline
  
• Severely infected with poor long-term prognosis
  
• Compromised by advanced gum disease
  
• Causing crowding or repeated infection (common with wisdom teeth)
  

A good consult should feel like a discussion, not a rush. The goal is a plan that suits your health, timeline and budget.

Do you need to replace the tooth after extraction?

Not always immediately, but it’s important to understand the pros and cons.

You may consider replacement if:

• It’s a visible front tooth (appearance)
  
• It’s a key chewing tooth (function)
  
• You want to reduce the risk of teeth drifting over time
  
• You want to maintain a stable bite
  

Replacement options

• Dental implant: often closest to a natural tooth feel and function
  
• Bridge: can be a good option in some situations
  
• Partial denture: may suit some budgets and needs
  

Your dentist can help you decide if replacement is necessary now, later, or not at all depending on which tooth was removed and how your bite works.

 

Questions to ask your dentist before booking an extraction

Use this checklist to keep things clear and avoid surprises:

• Is this extraction likely simple or surgical?
  
• What’s included in the fee (exam, X-ray, anaesthetic, stitches, review)?
  
• What are the main risks in my specific case?
  
• How long will healing take, and what should I avoid?
  
• What pain relief is appropriate for me?
  
• Will I need time off work or sport?
  
• Do I need to replace the tooth? If yes, what are my options and timing?
  

If you have dental anxiety, it’s also worth asking:

• What comfort options do you offer?
  
• Can we take breaks?
  
• Is sedation appropriate in my case?

How we approach extractions at Bespoke Dental Studio (Warrawong and Wollongong)

At Bespoke Dental Studio, our dentists aim to make tooth removal as calm, comfortable and clear as possible – especially for patients who are anxious or have had a bad experience elsewhere.

Our approach is:

• Clarity first: we assess the tooth properly and explain whether it looks simple or surgical
  
• Comfort-focused: we take numbing seriously and work gently
  
• No surprises: we explain what’s included in your treatment plan and what might change the fee
  
• Aftercare support: we give practical advice and encourage you to contact us if anything doesn’t feel right
  

If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Warrawong or Wollongong and you’re unsure whether your tooth needs to come out, an early consult can often save stress and sometimes money compared to waiting until it becomes an emergency.

FAQ: Tooth extraction cost questions Australians ask

1) What is the average tooth extraction cost in Australia?

Many patients pay a few hundred dollars for a straightforward extraction, while surgical extractions are typically higher due to complexity and time. The most accurate way to estimate your cost is an exam and X-ray with your dentist.

2) Why is my tooth extraction price higher than someone else’s?

Most price differences come down to complexity: tooth position, root shape, infection, whether the tooth is broken down, and whether surgical techniques, stitches or sedation are needed.

3) How much does a wisdom tooth extraction cost?

Wisdom tooth extraction cost varies widely. Erupted wisdom teeth can sometimes be removed simply, but impacted or angled teeth often require surgical removal and may cost more, especially if sedation or hospital care is involved.

4) Is tooth removal covered by private health insurance?

It can be. Extras cover often contributes to general dental services like extractions, but rebates depend on your fund, policy and annual limits. It’s best to check your remaining limits before treatment.

5) Does Medicare cover tooth extractions?

Medicare doesn’t usually cover routine dental for adults. Some children may be eligible under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, and eligible NSW residents may be able to access public dental services.