Average Cost of a Gingivectomy?
A gingivectomy is the surgical removal of your gum tissue, or gingiva. A gingivectomy can be used to treat a condition like gingivitis. It is also often used to remove extra gum tissue for cosmetic reasons, such as improving and balancing your smile.
Are You a Candidate for a Gingivectomy?
Your dentist might recommend a gingivectomy if you have gum recession from:
* Natural aging.
* A gum disease, like gingivitis.
* A bacterial infection.
* A gum injury.
A Gingivectomy for Gum Disease
If you are experiencing gum disease, your dentist might recommend this procedure to prevent future gum damage in addition to allowing easier access to the teeth for cleaning.
Gum disease often creates gaps and pockets that accelerate the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and hardened plaque, known as calculus or tartar. Those buildups will lead to further damage.
Your dentist might suggest a gingivectomy if they discover gum disease or an infection during a check-up and want to stop any progression.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A gingivectomy will take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how much gum tissue is removed.
A minor procedure involving just one tooth, or a few teeth will probably just take one visit. Major gum removal or reshaping could take several visits, to allow one area to heal before the next area is addressed.
Here is how the procedure works:
* A local anesthetic is administered to numb the immediate area.
* Your dentist will use a scalpel or a laser to remove pieces of gum tissue. This is called a soft tissue incision.
* During the procedure, your dentist will most likely keep a suction tool in your mouth to control saliva.
* Once the tissue has been removed, your dentist might use a laser tool to vaporize any remaining unwanted tissue and to shape and contour the gumline.
* A soft putty-like substance and bandages are applied to protect your gums while they heal.
The Recovery Process
You might experience some discomfort. You will be advised to eat only soft foods so that eating will not irritate or damage your gums during the healing process.
You can apply a cold compress to your cheeks to soothe any pain or irritation. Using a warm saltwater rinse or saline solution is beneficial to keep the area free of bacteria but avoid mouthwash or other antiseptic liquids.
You might also need to take antibiotics to prevent gum infections. Any soreness will subside after about a week. Take diligent care of your teeth by brushing and flossing twice a day, avoid smoking, and reduce the intake of sugar.
How Much Does a Gingivectomy Cost?
Your out-of-pocket costs for a gingivectomy can range from $200 to $400 per tooth. Your dentist may charge less for multiple teeth, usually up to 3, done in a single session.
If you have dental insurance, a gingivectomy is most likely covered by your plan if it is performed to treat periodontal disease or a mouth injury. The cost will vary depending on how much gum is removed and how many sessions it takes to complete.
Your insurance most likely will not cover it if it is done for elective cosmetic reasons.
Gingivectomy is a low-cost, low-risk procedure for correcting damaged gum tissue or to improve the appearance of your smile. Recovery is minimal and the outcome is most often positive.