Gum Contouring Cost
The cost of gum contouring averages around $50-$350 per tooth, however oftentimes a gum contouring procedure will cover an entire region of the mouth, which shifts the average price from $1,000-$3,000. The extent of work being done will be the biggest determinant to how much the procedure costs. Additional factors that will play a role in the cost of treatment include:
- Initial evaluation: It is important to factor in the cost of your initial evaluation prior to having gum contouring performed. Every clinic has different rates, but you may be able to include this evaluation as part of your regular oral examination and dental cleaning.
- Diagnostic exams: It may be necessary to take X-Rays or a CT scan to determine the underlying reason why gum contouring may be necessary.
- Reason for the procedure: If gum contouring is being performed for cosmetic purposes only, there is a good chance that the procedure will not be covered under a dental insurance plan. If the procedure is part of a larger treatment that is directed at your oral health (i.e. crown lengthening, pocket reduction, etc.) than your insurance plan may cover some or all of the cost of this procedure. Be sure to contact your provider and/or ask your clinic to help you determine anticipated costs and coverage prior to scheduling your procedure.
- Additional procedures: If gum contouring is being performed alongside other treatments, such as dental crowns (average $500-$3,000+ per tooth) dental bonding (average $100-$1,000 per tooth), or veneers (average $500-$1,100 per tooth), this will increase the total cost of treatment.
- Dental sedation: While a local anesthetic may be sufficient for many patients who are scheduled to have a gum contouring procedure performed, patients who require dental sedation will have to pay an additional fee that may not be covered by insurance. In general sedation is avoided if possible, as there are mild chances of complications that can occur when sedation is administered, however the likelihood of complications developing are very small, so talk to your periodontist about what options are available and best suited to your needs.
Is Gum Contouring Worth the Cost and Time Involved?
Although some people may consider cosmetic dentistry to be unnecessary, having a healthy, balanced looking smile can have a tremendous impact on all sorts of areas in a person’s life, including romantic pursuits, job prospects, and one’s overall sense of self-confidence.
Gum contouring is one of the safest and most effective ways to create a smile that is balanced and aesthetically pleasing and can be especially impactful for patients who have a gummy smile. If your periodontist has recommended gum contouring to help treat periodontal disease, it is important to carefully consider this recommendation to ensure that you sustain your overall oral health and avoid needing costlier, more invasive treatments later on.
If you are still considering whether gum contouring is the right option for you but are concerned about the cost or time involved, schedule an appointment with your periodontist, who can address your concerns and discuss financing options and potentially alternative treatment options to help you achieve a healthy smile you can feel confident in.