Nobody wants a tooth extracted. But when a tooth is beyond saving, extraction may be the most practical option to relieve pain, stop infection, and protect the teeth around it.
The cost varies depending on the type of extraction and the tooth involved. Here is what to expect in Brisbane in 2026.
Tooth extraction prices at Ivy Dental
Extraction type | Starting price |
|---|---|
Simple extraction (single rooted, no complications) | From $250 |
Routine extraction (multi-rooted tooth) | From $300 |
Surgical extraction (impacted, broken, or complicated) | From $350 |
Complex surgical extraction (deep impaction, bone removal required) | From $500 |
Wisdom tooth extraction (per tooth, surgical) | From $350 to $500 |
Indicative pricing. Your quote may differ based on clinical assessment.
All extractions include local anaesthesia, the procedure itself, and post-operative instructions. Follow-up appointments for healing checks are included where clinically necessary.
What affects the cost
Simple vs surgical. A simple extraction involves loosening and removing a tooth that is fully erupted, visible, and has straightforward roots. Surgical extraction is needed when a tooth is broken below the gum line, impacted (partially or fully buried in bone), or has curved or fused roots that prevent straightforward removal.
Number of roots. A front tooth has one root. A molar has two or three. Multi-rooted teeth take longer to remove and may need to be sectioned (cut into pieces) before extraction.
Position of the tooth. Lower wisdom teeth buried in the jawbone near the nerve canal require more careful surgical technique than an upper premolar that can be gently rocked out.
Tooth condition. A tooth that is heavily decayed or has had a previous root canal may be brittle and fragment during removal. This adds time and complexity.
Infection. If there is an active abscess, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics before the extraction to reduce infection and improve anaesthesia effectiveness. A badly infected tooth can be harder to numb and harder to remove.
X-rays and imaging. A periapical X-ray (from $40) or OPG panoramic X-ray (from $100) is typically needed before extraction to assess root shape, proximity to nerves, and the presence of infection.
When extraction is recommended
Your dentist will explore every alternative before recommending extraction. Teeth are always worth saving when possible. Extraction is typically recommended when:
- Decay is too extensive. The tooth is so damaged that a filling or crown cannot restore it structurally.
- A fracture extends below the gum line. Vertical root fractures or deep splits cannot be repaired.
- Advanced gum disease. Severe bone loss around the tooth has made it loose and non-restorable.
- Failed root canal. A tooth that has had root canal treatment but continues to cause infection may need extraction.
- Orthodontic reasons. In some cases, teeth are removed to create space for aligner treatment or braces.
- Impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth that cause pain, infection, or threaten adjacent teeth are commonly extracted. Read our wisdom teeth removal cost guide.
What the extraction procedure involves
Simple extraction
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic. Your dentist uses an elevator instrument to loosen the tooth in its socket, then uses forceps to gently rock and remove it. You will feel pressure but not pain. The whole process takes 10 to 20 minutes for a single tooth.
Surgical extraction
After anaesthesia, a small incision may be made in the gum to access the tooth. In some cases, a small amount of bone around the tooth is removed. The tooth may be sectioned into pieces for easier removal. The site is then cleaned and sutured (stitched) closed. Dissolvable sutures are typically used.
Surgical extractions take 20 to 45 minutes depending on complexity.
Recovery after extraction
Most patients recover well within a few days. Here is a typical timeline.
Day 1. Bite on gauze for 30 to 60 minutes after the procedure to control bleeding. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) to reduce swelling. Eat soft foods. Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, and vigorous rinsing.
Days 2 to 3. Swelling may peak on day 2 and begin to subside. Mild to moderate discomfort is normal and typically managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Start gentle salt water rinses (half a teaspoon of salt in warm water) from day 2.
Days 4 to 7. Discomfort reduces noticeably. You can gradually return to normal foods, avoiding the extraction site when chewing.
Weeks 2 to 4. The gum tissue closes over. Deeper bone healing continues beneath the surface for several months.
For a full recovery guide, read our post on tooth extraction recovery.
What about replacing the extracted tooth?
Not every extracted tooth needs replacing. Wisdom teeth and some premolars removed for orthodontic reasons do not typically need replacement.
For teeth in the visible or functional zones (front teeth, premolars, first and second molars), replacement is worth considering. Leaving a gap can cause:
- Adjacent teeth tilting into the space
- The opposing tooth over-erupting
- Bite changes and uneven wear on remaining teeth
- Bone loss in the extraction area over time
Replacement options include:
Option | Starting price | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
Dental implant | 15 to 25+ years | |
Dental bridge | From $3,500 (3-unit) | 10 to 15 years |
Partial denture | From $900 | 5 to 10 years |
Your dentist will discuss timing. In some cases, an implant can be planned at the same time as the extraction. In others, a healing period is needed first. Read about missing tooth replacement options.
Health fund and CDBS coverage
Most health funds cover extractions under general dental or surgical dental categories. Rebate amounts vary by fund and level of cover. We process claims on site with HICAPS at our Everton Park and Nundah clinics.
For children aged 0 to 17, the CDBS covers extractions within the $1,158 two-year benefit cap. We bulk-bill CDBS directly.
Payment plans may be available to approved applicants for patients requiring multiple extractions or subsequent replacement treatment. See our payment options page for details.
Next steps
If you have a tooth that is causing pain, has been flagged by your dentist, or you suspect may need removal, book an assessment. We will take the necessary imaging, explain your options, and provide an itemised quote before any work begins.
Book an extraction consultation at Ivy Dental. Book a consultation, or call (07) 3266 7120.
