How Much Can You Claim from Medisave?
For surgical wisdom tooth extraction, you can claim up to $1,250 per tooth from your Medisave account. At Trust Dental Surgery, surgical wisdom tooth removal costs between $350 and $1,250 per tooth (before GST), which means the procedure is 100% Medisave-claimable for most patients.
If you need multiple wisdom teeth removed, each tooth is claimable separately. For example, removing all four wisdom teeth could allow up to $5,000 in Medisave claims.
What Qualifies for Medisave?
Not all wisdom tooth removals are Medisave-claimable. The key distinction is between surgical extraction and simple extraction:
- Surgical extraction (Medisave-claimable): Required when the wisdom tooth is impacted (partially or fully trapped under the gum or bone). The dentist needs to make an incision, possibly remove some bone, and may need to section the tooth for removal. This is classified as a surgical procedure.
- Simple extraction (NOT Medisave-claimable): When the wisdom tooth has fully erupted and can be removed with standard forceps without surgery. This is considered a routine dental procedure and does not qualify.
Your dentist will take an X-ray to determine whether your wisdom tooth requires surgical or simple extraction. Most wisdom teeth that cause problems are impacted to some degree, so the majority of cases do qualify for Medisave.
What Does the Cost Cover?
The Medisave claim for wisdom tooth surgery covers:
- The surgical extraction procedure
- Local anaesthesia
- Pre-operative X-rays
- Post-operative review and suture removal
- Medications (antibiotics and painkillers)
Step-by-Step Process at Trust Dental
Here is what to expect when you come to Trust Dental Surgery for wisdom tooth removal with Medisave:
- Consultation and X-ray: Your dentist will examine your wisdom teeth and take a panoramic X-ray (OPG) to assess the position, angulation, and proximity to nerves. This determines whether surgical extraction is needed.
- Treatment plan and cost estimate: You will receive a clear breakdown of the cost and exactly how much Medisave will cover. For most patients, the entire fee falls within the $1,250 Medisave limit.
- Medisave paperwork: Our clinic handles the Medisave claim forms. You just need to bring your NRIC and sign the authorisation form. If you are using a family member's Medisave, they will need to sign the form as well.
- Surgery day: The procedure is done under local anaesthesia. Most wisdom tooth surgeries take 20–45 minutes per tooth. You will be awake but should not feel any pain.
- Recovery and follow-up: You will receive post-operative care instructions, prescribed medications, and a follow-up appointment (usually after 1 week) for suture removal and healing review.
- Medisave deduction: The Medisave claim is processed after the procedure. The amount is deducted directly from your (or your family member's) Medisave account.
Can You Use a Family Member's Medisave?
Yes. You can use your own Medisave or the Medisave account of your immediate family members — spouse, parents, children, grandparents, or grandchildren. The account holder just needs to sign the authorisation form.
Tips for a Smooth Wisdom Tooth Surgery Experience
- Bring your NRIC (and the account holder's NRIC if using a family member's Medisave)
- Eat a light meal before the appointment — you will not be able to eat comfortably for a few hours after
- Plan for 1–3 days of rest after surgery, especially if removing multiple teeth
- Stock up on soft foods such as porridge, soup, yoghurt, and mashed potatoes for the recovery period
- Read our complete guide to wisdom tooth surgery for detailed information on recovery and aftercare