Oral Surgery in Ashburton

When tooth removal is necessary

Sometimes a tooth cannot be saved — severely infected, broken beyond repair, or causing ongoing discomfort other treatments cannot resolve. Our approach is always conservative: we recommend extraction only when it truly benefits your long-term health, and we will talk through every option, including removal and replacement solutions to suit your budget.

What to expect

Procedures use modern digital technology and a tailored technique, and can often be completed in a single visit. For patients in an emergency, same-day appointments are frequently available. We use local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable. Sedation is available on request. We make sure you are completely numb before we begin.

Your recovery

Recovery is usually straightforward. We provide clear post-operative instructions to support your healing, and most patients return to their routine within a few hours. We are here if you have any questions afterwards.

What oral surgery covers here

Here, oral surgery means procedures done in the dental chair by your general dentist, usually under local anaesthetic. Each has its own page.

• Tooth extractions: removing a tooth that is badly decayed, cracked, loose or infected.
• Wisdom teeth removal: for wisdom teeth that are stuck, partly through the gum, or causing pain.
• Implant surgery: placing an implant to replace a missing tooth, by Dr Mariana Habil.
• Crown lengthening: reshaping gum and bone so a broken tooth can be restored.

Who does the surgery, and when we refer

Routine extractions here are mostly done by Dr Mee Kim. Surgical extractions, including most wisdom teeth, are mostly done by Dr Mariana Habil. Many extractions and wisdom teeth can be managed in the chair. Some cases are better treated elsewhere. We may suggest a referral when:

• the X-ray shows a root very close to a nerve or the sinus
• a wisdom tooth is deeply buried in bone
• you have a medical condition that needs hospital care
• you would prefer a general anaesthetic in hospital
• the surgery needed is more complex than we can do in the chair

If we refer you, we explain why and send your X-rays with the letter.

Before your procedure

• Tell us about every medicine you take and any health conditions.
• We take an X-ray and go through the plan, risks and alternatives.
• You get a written estimate before we start.
• Sedation is available on request. If you feel nervous, tell us when you book — see nervous patients.

The first few days

Bite on the gauze to stop the bleeding. For the first day, avoid rinsing, spitting hard, smoking and straws, as these can dislodge the clot. Eat soft, cool food on the other side.

Some swelling and soreness for two or three days is normal. Call us on (03) 9885 7588 if bleeding does not settle, pain gets worse after day three, or you notice a fever or bad taste. These can be signs of a dry socket or infection.

If the removed tooth is visible or needed for chewing, plan a replacement early. Options include an implant, a bridge or dentures.

Cost and health funds

We are a Bupa Members First Platinum, HCF More for Teeth and nib First Choice preferred provider. We accept all health funds, including Medibank, ahm, CBHS and Australian Unity, claimed on the spot with HICAPS.

Common questions

Do I need a referral to book oral surgery?

No. You can call us or book online. We assess the tooth, take an X-ray and explain what is involved. If your case needs care in another setting, we arrange the referral for you and send your records.

Can I go back to work the same day?

It depends on the procedure. After a simple extraction, many people are back at work the next day, and some the same afternoon. After wisdom teeth removal, plan for a day or two of rest.

Will my health fund help with the cost?

Extras policies often include some cover for extractions and other surgical items, but limits and waiting periods vary. We can give you the item numbers from your estimate so you can check with your fund first.