Wisdom Tooth Removal: Cost, Process, and Recovery

Not all wisdom teeth need removing

Wisdom teeth (third molars) usually appear between ages 17-25. Many come through without problems. Extraction is only recommended when they cause or are likely to cause issues — impaction, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, or cysts.

At Parish Dental Practice, we monitor wisdom teeth at routine check-ups and only recommend removal when clinically necessary.

When do wisdom teeth need removing?

• Impaction: The tooth is stuck against the tooth in front or growing at an angle. This can damage the adjacent tooth and create a pocket where bacteria accumulate.
• Pericoronitis: The gum over a partially erupted wisdom tooth becomes repeatedly infected. Symptoms include pain, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, and a bad taste.
• Decay: Wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth are difficult to clean and prone to cavities.
• Cysts: Rarely, a cyst can form around an unerupted wisdom tooth, potentially damaging the jawbone.
• Orthodontic reasons: Occasionally removed to prevent crowding, though this is debated.

The extraction procedure

Simple extractions (fully erupted teeth) take 5-15 minutes under local anaesthetic. Surgical extractions (impacted teeth) may require a small incision in the gum and sometimes removal of a small amount of bone. This takes 20-45 minutes.

Most wisdom tooth extractions are performed in the dental chair, not in hospital. Complex cases may be referred to an oral surgeon.

Recovery timeline

1. Day 1-2: Swelling, mild bleeding, and discomfort. Apply cold compresses. Take ibuprofen.
2. Day 3-5: Swelling peaks then subsides. Eat soft foods. Avoid smoking, straws, and vigorous rinsing.
3. Week 1-2: Most patients feel back to normal. Stitches dissolve or are removed.
4. Week 2-4: The socket fully heals. You can return to all normal activities.

How much does wisdom tooth removal cost?

On the NHS, extraction falls under Band 2 at 73.50 pounds — regardless of how many teeth are removed in the same course. Privately, a simple extraction costs 100-250 pounds and a surgical extraction 200-400 pounds per tooth.

For emergency wisdom tooth pain: same-day appointments are available at Parish Dental. Call 0113 263 8509.

For the complete emergency guide: What to do in a dental emergency.

Frequently asked questions

Are you accepting new patients?

Yes. Parish Dental Practice in Armley, Leeds accepts new NHS and private patients. Call 0113 263 8509 or book online.

How much does NHS dental treatment cost?

NHS Band 1 (check-ups): 26.80 pounds. Band 2 (fillings, extractions): 73.50 pounds. Band 3 (crowns, dentures): 319.10 pounds. Free for under 18s and qualifying patients. Read: NHS charges explained.