Home › Prices › Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost in South Africa
Wisdom teeth (third molars) are often removed when they are impacted, crowded or causing pain. A straightforward, fully erupted wisdom tooth can be taken out with a simple extraction, while an impacted tooth needs a surgical extraction involving an incision and sometimes bone removal. Prices below are indicative SA ranges per tooth and vary by complexity and clinic.
| Component | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Simple wisdom tooth extraction (erupted) | R800–R1,500 per tooth |
| Surgical extraction (impacted) | R1,700–R4,000+ per tooth |
| Sedation / general anaesthetic (if used) | extra, often via hospital/anaesthetist |
What affects the price
- Whether the tooth is fully erupted (simple) or impacted (surgical)
- Depth and angle of impaction and proximity to nerves
- Whether a general dentist or a specialist oral surgeon does it
- Sedation or general anaesthetic adds substantial cost
- Number of wisdom teeth removed in one sitting
- Clinic location and X-ray/CBCT fees
Does medical aid cover it?
Surgical removal of impacted wisdom teeth is often partly covered by SA medical schemes as a medically necessary procedure, sometimes including hospital/sedation costs with pre-authorisation. Simple extractions are usually paid from the limited dental benefit or savings account. Cover varies by plan, so get pre-authorisation and codes first.
Compare dental cover options →
Frequently asked questions
What makes a surgical extraction more expensive than a simple one?
A surgical extraction involves cutting the gum, sometimes removing bone, and possibly sectioning the tooth to remove it in pieces. This takes more time, skill and often sedation, which all raise the cost compared with simply lifting out an erupted tooth.
Can I have all four wisdom teeth removed at once?
Yes, this is common and is often done under sedation or general anaesthetic. Each tooth is usually priced individually, so removing all four costs more, but doing them together can save on repeat anaesthetic and facility fees.
Will I need sedation?
Simple extractions are usually done under local anaesthetic only. Impacted or multiple extractions may be done under conscious sedation or general anaesthetic for comfort, which adds anaesthetist and facility fees.
Are these prices fixed?
No. SA dental fees are unregulated and depend heavily on complexity. These are indicative ranges — get a written quote after an X-ray and assessment.
Figures are indicative ranges compiled from published South African dental price guides and comparison sources, last reviewed June 2026. They are not a quote — ask your dentist for a written treatment plan.
