How Much Does Gum Grafting Cost?

Gum recession is a very common problem for patients. Recession can be a result of periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, or even genetics! When gum tissue recedes, the roots of the tooth become exposed and can be very sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages. A soft tissue (gum) graft can be utilized to cover the area to not only relieve sensitivity but to bring your teeth back to a healthy state.

Cost of Gum Grafts

The cost of having a gum graft at Lake Norman Oral Surgery can range from $600 to $2000 per tooth, depending on the extent of your individual case, what dental professional performs your surgery, and where the tissue comes from. A Periodontist is likely to be more costly than a Dentist and donor tissue is more expensive than using tissue that has been harvested from another area of your own mouth. If you need gum contouring in addition to your graft, the total per tooth can be up to $3000.

What is involved with gum grafts?

Some dentists have the training and technology to perform a gum graft in their office. If they do not, they will refer you to a periodontist. The doctor will numb the area to be treated and the area to be harvested if needed. Depending on your needs, you may also be provided a mild sedative to help you relax and on a very rare occasion, general anesthesia may be used. Your doctor will then make a small incision in the gums where the graft is to be placed to make a little pocket for the new tissue. They will then stitch the area together to close it.

If your doctor is able to harvest soft tissue from another area, like the roof of your mouth, you will have stitches that are covered with either a stent or putty to protect the area while it heals. A stent is a mouth guard that covers the whole roof of your mouth, keeping food and your tongue from irritating the site.

Additional costs and Discount Options

You should be prepared to have a full periodontal exam before beginning any grafting treatment. This will likely include x-rays and can cost up to $500.

If you are hoping to have your grafting done and a lower cost, you may look into dental schools and continuing education programs. These places have trained dental professionals overseeing everything that is done!

Finding the Right Provider for You

If you believe that gum grafting might be the best treatment for you, look online at your dental insurance providers website to see if there are any in-network periodontist that might be able to help you. Your dentist may also be able to refer you to a periodontist that can help with your treatment. Other online options include the website for the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Periodontology.

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