If you’ve noticed that your teeth look longer or your gums are pulling back, you might be dealing with receding gums. This situation occurs when the gum tissue is removed around the teeth and has started exposing the teeth or even their root. It can make your teeth more sensitive and also affect your smile. But the good news is that treatments are available to fix it.
However, many wonder how much it costs to treat the gums. The cost of receding gums treatment depends on some important factors, such as how serious the problem is, what kind of treatment is required, and where you live. So, let’s take a closer look at what to expect under cost, treatment options, and procedure.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when gum tissue gradually recedes from teeth. This can cause teeth to appear longer and even expose the roots. If this occurs, it can lead to pain, sensitivity, and an increased risk of cavities and infections.
There are numerous reasons why gums recede. Some of the most common causes are hard brushing, gum disease, smoking, and even genetics. Regardless of why it happens, once your gums recede, they don’t grow back naturally. Therefore, professional treatment is usually the only means to fix the damage and secure your teeth.
What is the Average Cost of Fixing Recurring Gums?
Now, let’s discuss the cost. Gum graft surgery is one of the most prevalent treatments for receding gums. The average cost of this procedure in the U.S. is around $2,742. The price, though, can vary from around $2,120 to up to $4,982 based on several factors.
The cost of gum grafting may depend on the number of teeth that need to be treated and the severity of the problem. The procedure type and the expert you hire also contribute significantly to the final cost.
What Determines the Price of Gum Treatment?
So, why does there have to be such a big price variation when treating receding gums? Let’s go through some of the most important things that influence the overall cost of correcting this problem.
1- Type of Gum Graft
There are various types of gum grafts. Some of the most popular ones are:
- Gingival Grafts: They use tissue taken from the top of your mouth.
- Connective Tissue Grafts: These come from the palate of the roof of the mouth but from the deeper layers.
- Pedicle Grafts: This one involves taking tissue from the surrounding gums.
On average, gingival and connective tissue grafts are equally costly. Pedicle grafts, however, are generally cheaper because they do not involve the removal of tissue from some other area. As I mentioned above, the cost of gum grafting will also depend greatly on the procedure you choose.
2- The Number of Teeth is Treated
The second factor is the number of teeth that will be treated. The costs will be low if you only need a graft for a tooth. However, the price is expected to increase if your gums affect many teeth. More teeth mean more work for the dentist and more time in the chair.
3- Size and Location of the Graft Site
The area where your gum recession is also a factor that will affect the cost. Tissue grafting near front teeth can be more intricate since such areas are exposed. Large grafting sites could require additional tissue or special attention, which can increase the treatment cost.
4- Anesthesia Used
Another factor is whether you need local anesthesia (to numb the area being treated only) or general anesthesia (being kept asleep). Local anesthesia is very cheap. While on the other hand, general anesthesia can increase costs, especially if an anesthesiologist is involved.
5- X-rays and Aftercare
Most gum grafting procedures require X-rays before and after examining the position of your gums and teeth. These X-rays are usually not included in the base price and can incur extra charges. You’ll also need follow-up visits and medications, which add to the total cost.
6- Your Dental Specialist
The cost also depends on who treats it. Periodontists (gum specialists) usually take more than a normal dentist. However, they also have more experience with these types of procedures, so that it can be worth the high fees.
7- Severity of Gum Recession
You do not necessarily need a complete graft if your gums are mildly receded. In other instances, deep cleaning (root planing and scaling) might suffice. In these instances, the cost of receding gums treatment is considerably lower than when surgical procedures are involved.
8. Where the Gum Tissue Comes From
In many cases, dentists use tissues from the mouth, such as the mouth. But if you need a donor tissue, it can be grown from a human donor or a laboratory-developed source. The donor tissue is more expensive, but in some cases, it may be necessary, especially when sufficiently healthy tissue is not available in the mouth.
Does Insurance Cover It?
This is a good question. Dental insurance can partly cover the cost of gum grafting, especially if it is medically necessary. For example, if you experience pain or bleeding or are in danger of losing your teeth, insurance can help. However, if treatment is considered cosmetic, which means it is mostly for appearance, insurance cannot pay for it.
It is always a good idea to investigate your supplier too soon. Some offices can also help you get approval from your insurance company before starting treatment.
Final Thoughts!
Fixing the gums can be expensive, but it is an important step for oral health in the long term. On average, the cost of surgery in the gums of transplantation is approximately $ 2,742. Still, the total price of transplants may depend on the type of graft, number of teeth, and working professionals.
The cost of receding gum treatment can also vary. Where you live and whether the sensory tissue is used can also vary depending on it. Before you continue, talk to your dentist or periodontist about your options. Ask about what kind of pod you need and if your insurance will help. Taking care of your gums now can help prevent major dental problems later.
