Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost in Queensland (2026)

edit_note Townsville Dental Directory editorial team · Updated 19 May 2026
wisdom teethdental costsoral surgery

Wisdom teeth (third molars) are the last teeth to develop, typically emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. The Australian Dental Association reports that up to 85 per cent of people will need at least one wisdom tooth removed during their lifetime due to impaction, crowding, or infection (ADA, Wisdom Teeth Removal, 2024). In Queensland, wisdom teeth removal is one of the most commonly performed oral surgery procedures, and costs vary significantly depending on the complexity of the extraction and the type of anaesthesia used.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost Breakdown

The cost of wisdom teeth removal at Townsville Dental Clinic depends on the complexity of each tooth. The following table provides a detailed breakdown for 2026 pricing.

Extraction TypeCost Per ToothAll 4 TeethADA Item Numbers
Simple extraction (fully erupted)$250–$500$1,000–$2,000314, 311
Surgical extraction (soft tissue impaction)$400–$600$1,600–$2,400324
Surgical extraction (bony impaction)$500–$800$2,000–$3,000324, 384

Additional Costs to Consider

Additional ServiceCostNotes
OPG X-ray$60–$100Required for treatment planning
CBCT scan$150–$300For complex impactions near the nerve
IV sedation$500–$1,000Administered in the dental chair
General anaesthesia (day surgery)$1,000–$2,500Anaesthetist + facility fee
Post-operative medications$20–$50Antibiotics and pain relief

Most patients at our Townsville practice have their wisdom teeth removed under local anaesthesia with optional nitrous oxide (happy gas) or IV sedation. This avoids the significantly higher costs associated with general anaesthesia at a day hospital.

Simple vs Surgical Extraction

The distinction between a simple and surgical extraction is the primary factor affecting cost. A simple extraction is performed when the wisdom tooth has fully erupted through the gum and can be removed with forceps in a straightforward procedure. A surgical extraction is required when the tooth is partially or fully impacted — meaning it is trapped beneath the gum tissue or bone.

An OPG X-ray taken at your consultation appointment shows the position, angle, and root formation of each wisdom tooth, as well as its proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve (lower jaw) or maxillary sinus (upper jaw). This imaging determines whether the extraction will be simple or surgical.

Insurance Rebates and Payment Options

Private health insurance with major dental cover typically rebates $150 to $400 per extraction. For a patient having all four wisdom teeth surgically removed at a total cost of $2,400, a typical rebate of $800 to $1,200 would leave an out-of-pocket gap of $1,200 to $1,600.

For patients without insurance, Townsville Dental Clinic offers interest-free payment plans to spread the cost over several months. The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) does not cover surgical extractions but may cover simple extractions for eligible children aged 0 to 17.

For information on what to expect after your procedure, see our guide on wisdom tooth healing.

Ready to book? Contact Townsville Dental Clinic

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does wisdom teeth removal cost in Queensland?
Wisdom teeth removal in Queensland costs $250 to $800 per tooth in 2026, depending on whether the extraction is simple or surgical. A simple extraction of a fully erupted wisdom tooth costs $250 to $500, while a surgical extraction of an impacted or partially erupted tooth costs $400 to $800. Removing all four wisdom teeth typically costs $1,500 to $3,000 in total. At Townsville Dental Clinic, we provide a detailed quote after assessing your OPG or CBCT X-rays so there are no surprises.
How much does it cost to have all 4 wisdom teeth removed?
Having all four wisdom teeth removed in Queensland costs $1,500 to $3,000 when performed under local anaesthesia in the dental chair. If you opt for general anaesthesia at a day hospital, an additional $1,000 to $2,500 is added for the anaesthetist and facility fees. At Townsville Dental Clinic, most straightforward cases are performed under local anaesthesia with optional IV sedation, which keeps costs lower than a hospital setting while ensuring patient comfort.
Does health insurance cover wisdom teeth removal?
Yes. Most private health funds with major dental or extras cover provide rebates of $150 to $400 per surgical extraction, depending on your fund and level of cover. Wisdom teeth removal is classified as oral surgery under ADA item numbers 314, 324, and 384. A 12-month waiting period for major dental typically applies. At Townsville Dental Clinic, we process your rebate on the spot via HICAPS to minimise your upfront payment.
Is general anaesthesia necessary for wisdom teeth removal?
General anaesthesia is not always necessary. Most wisdom teeth can be safely removed under local anaesthesia in the dental chair, particularly when one or two teeth are being extracted. For patients having all four removed simultaneously, or those with severe dental anxiety, IV sedation or general anaesthesia at a day surgery facility may be recommended. Local anaesthesia is included in the extraction fee, while IV sedation adds $500 to $1,000 and general anaesthesia adds $1,000 to $2,500.

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