Specialist Wisdom Teeth Care
Connect with an independent Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon for a considered assessment of complex, impacted or concerning wisdom teeth.
When is a specialist the right choice?
For many straightforward wisdom teeth concerns, a general dentist is the right place to start. The Dental Board of Australia notes that dentists, oral surgeons and oral & maxillofacial surgeons all manage conditions of the mouth and jaws. The important difference is each professional’s training and the range of conditions they treat.
Who does what?
All three professionals play an important part in oral health. The Dental Board of Australia distinguishes them by their qualifications and the kinds of conditions they are trained to manage.
General dentist
A general dentist can diagnose and treat problems in the teeth, gums and mouth, which may include removing teeth. They can also recognise when a specialist opinion is appropriate and refer you to the right practitioner.
Oral surgeon
An oral surgeon is a dentist and dental specialist. According to the Board, they complete a dental degree and three years of specialist dental training. Their work may include oral surgery, pre-prosthetic surgery and sinus conditions related to oral surgery.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
An Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon is trained as a dentist, medical practitioner and specialist. The Board says they complete dental and medical degrees plus four years of specialist medical and dental training, allowing them to manage a broader range of jaw and face conditions.
Why a specialist may be recommended
Choosing a specialist is not about one clinician being “better” for every wisdom tooth. It is about matching the care to the problem. A dentist, GP or other health professional may recommend an oral surgeon or Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon when your needs call for that particular expertise.
The concern involves more than a tooth
The Board explains that Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons treat conditions of the mouth and jaws as well as diseases, injuries and defects of the jaw and face.
Your wider treatment plan is complex
The Board lists temporomandibular joint surgery, facial trauma, reconstructive surgery and corrective jaw or face surgery among the procedures within the broader Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery scope.
A clinician recommends a second opinion
The Dental Board emphasises that practitioners work together so patients receive the right care from the right practitioner. A referral is a way to bring the appropriate experience into your care plan.
A practical way to check credentials
Protected titles matter. The Dental Board says that “dentist”, “oral surgeon” and “oral and maxillofacial surgeon” are protected titles in Australia. You can also check a practitioner’s registration through Ahpra before your appointment.
Get a Clear Answer About Your Wisdom Teeth
Tell us what’s going on and we’ll connect you with an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Doctor Wisdom Teeth connects you with independent specialist providers. This site provides general information only and doesn’t replace personalised medical advice.