Gum Grafting Costs

There are a number of factors that make up a gum grafting procedure. These factors begin with your age, the current condition of your soft tissue, the actual depth of your gum recession that needs attention with surgical gum grafting and the number of teeth involved. Before costs can be identified you first need to understand the actual gum grafting procedure and why you may consider the treatment.

What Causes the Need for Gum Grafting?

Gum recession is a common and frequent oral health issue that increases with aging. It can be accelerated with a smoking habit or simply brushing too aggressively with a firm-bristled toothbrush. It can also be affected by your genetics or if you have been diagnosed with diabetes. Periodontal or gum disease is a primary contributor which is most often from poor oral hygiene at home. Around 12% of American adults currently suffer from gum recession. It impacts the perceived value of your natural smile and will also affect the health of your teeth involved, exposing roots which will result in bone loss then tooth loss.

The Gum Grafting Procedure

There are sources on your palette, or the roof of your mouth, that your periodontist will use as a donor source for your transplant soft tissue. This tissue is delicately removed and then surgically relocated to the area in need of more tissue.

The Many Factors Affecting Gum Grafting Costs

The wide range for this periodontal surgery can range from as little as $500 to $10,000. A terrifically wide range. With that range having been identified, a common and ordinary gum graft may cost from $600 to $1,200. Factors start with x-rays and the extent of a thorough periodontal diagnosis. The next factor is if any anesthesia is needed. Will the application of a local anesthetic be adequate, or is there the need for something more extensive? Where on your palette or roof is the best source for donor tissue? Tissue is available from a tissue bank but will add a cost. The actual location of the grafting is another factor. Where is the graft going, the front or the back of your mouth? The location in the back of your mouth will add to time and difficulty. Is the graft being used on just one exposed tooth root only or are there several teeth in need? More roots, more time, more tissue, more sutures, and more costs. The baseline cost for gum grafting will likely be higher on either coast versus in the Midwest.

The Benefits of Gum Grafting

Before you agree to the treatment make sure that all alternatives have been investigated. There are two objectives with gum grafting, the perception of your smile and the continued health of your teeth and gums. If your gum recession is not severe you could consider gum contouring. This simple procedure will aesthetically balance the ratio of your gums with your teeth. You could consider the scaling of your roots. The removal of the accumulation of damaging plaque will allow your gums to heal naturally on their own before any invasive treatment. Your smile is an invaluable asset to your quality of life. Take care of your smile.

Gum Grafting Recovery