Gum Grafting Costs
On average a gum tissue graft cost between $1,000-$1,500 per tooth/area being treated. Whether the total cost is higher or lower will largely depend on the type of graft that is used, with donor tissue costing more than tissue that is taken from the patient’s mouth. While the cost is higher, using this type of graft is less invasive and will result in an easy recovery period. Some patients also opt to have a gum contouring procedure performed along with their graft to improve the aesthetic appearance of their smile, which can increase the total costs to average between $1,000-$3,000.
The total cost will also depend on a multitude of factors, such as where you are located geographically and the professional reputation of your dentist or periodontist. Prior to having a gum graft performed, there will be the cost of the initial evaluation, which averages between $150-$400. Additional costs may also be incurred if diagnostic tests such as X-rays or CT scans need to be taken, if dental sedation is used during the procedure, and/or if preparatory procedures need to be performed first, which may include treating periodontal disease.
Prior to scheduling a gum grafting procedure, it is important to discuss anticipated costs with your care provider. Patients with a dental benefit plan should also review their plan and/or contact their provider to see if the gum grafting procedure is a benefit, and if so, how much.
Patients who are not covered by a dental benefit plan or who are unable to afford the cost of treatment should inquire if their office offers financing options, which may even include 0% interest over an agreed upon period of time. Most offices are committed to ensuring that you have a healthy mouth and will do whatever they can to help ensure you receive the care you need. It is also a good idea to see if your office offers discounts for patients who pay in full at the time of their procedure.
Is Gum Grafting Worth the Cost?
If your gums have recessed and you have been told a gum grafting procedure should be performed, but are uncertain whether having the procedure performed is worth the money, consider the following benefits that you will enjoy as a result of having this procedure:
- Preserves the health of your teeth and protects against recession
- Stabilizes and strengthens your gums
- Restores the aesthetic appearance of your smile
- Issues caused by gum recession like tooth sensitivity will be corrected
- Procedure is safe and has a high success rate
While the financial impact of having a procedure performed is an important consideration, you will end up saving more money in the long run if you take the steps necessary to ensure the health of your gums and teeth and prevent further issues from developing that will require more extensive, costlier treatment down the road.