There are a variety of factors that are part of a gum grafting procedure. Those factors start with your age, the condition of your soft tissue, the actual depth of your gum recession that needs attention with surgical repair and the number of teeth also involved. Before costs can be identified we first need to understand the gum grafting procedure and why you might consider going through the treatment.
What Causes the Need for Gum Grafting?
Gum recession is a frequent and common oral health issue that increases with aging. It can be accelerated with the habit of smoking or simply brushing too aggressively with a firm-bristled toothbrush. It can be affected by your genetics or if you have developed diabetes. Periodontal or gum disease is a main contributor which is usually from poor oral hygiene. Around 12% of American adults suffer from gum recession. Not only does it impact the perceived value of your smile, but it will also affect the health of your teeth involved, often exposing roots which results first in bone loss then tooth loss.
The Gum Grafting Procedure
There are sources on your palette, the roof of your mouth, that your periodontist can use as a donor source for soft tissue. This tissue is delicately removed and then surgically placed to the area in need of more tissue.
The Many Factors Affecting Gum Grafting Costs
To begin, the wide range for this periodontal surgery can run from as little as $500 to $10,000. An extremely wide range. With that range having been stated, a common gum graft can cost from $600 to $1,200. Factors begin with x-rays and a very thorough periodontal diagnosis. The next element is the need for any anesthesia. Will the application of a local anesthetic be sufficient, or will you need something more extensive? Where on your palette is the best source for the donor tissue? Tissue is available from a tissue bank which will add a cost. The location of the grafting in your mouth is another factor. Where is the graft going? The front or the back of your mouth? The location in your mouth will add to both time and difficulty. Is the graft being placed on just one exposed tooth root only or are there several teeth involved. More roots, more tissue, more time, more sutures, and more costs. Finally, the baseline cost for gum grafting will most likely be higher on either coast versus in the Midwest.
The Benefits of Gum Grafting
Before you commit to the treatment make sure that all alternatives have been discussed. There are two objectives: the perceived quality of your smile and the ongoing health of your teeth and gums. If your gum recession is not too severe you may consider gum contouring. This simple procedure will balance out the ratio of your gums with your teeth. You may want to consider the scaling of your roots. The removal of the buildup of damaging plaque will allow your gums to heal on their own before any invasive action. Your smile is an invaluable asset to your quality of life. Take care of your smile.
