Most people don’t pay attention to their teeth until they have significant issues that are very painful and require a swift emergency dental visit. So, issues such as gum recession can creep up and go unnoticed.
Gum recession can be hard to detect as the gum tissue slowly pulls away from teeth, exposing their sensitive roots. Since gums don’t grow back, people with receded gums require receding gum surgery to restore their gum health.
However, if you are uninformed about its cost, it can be difficult to make the decision when you need it. So, how much is receding gum surgery, and why do you need it? That’s what we will discuss in this blog. Continue reading to know more about the price ranges for gum surgery.
What is Receding Gum Surgery?
Since receding gums are not easy to detect, many people who need it often don’t recognize its symptoms. According to Perio Health’s board-certified periodontist, Dr. Michael K. McGuire, DDS, “Receding gum surgery, also known as gum grafting, is a dental procedure designed to treat gum recession where the gum tissue pulls back from the teeth to expose the roots. It involves taking tissue from another area of the mouth or using donor tissue to cover exposed roots to restore gum health and appearance.”
When Do You Need Receding Gum Surgery?
One tell-tale sign of receding gums is longer teeth, as the gum tissue is worn away. Deep pockets between teeth are also a sign of gum recession. These pockets create ideal spaces for bacteria to gather and cause infection.
Moreover, receded gums also cause uneven gum lines that can ruin the appearance of one’s smile. Receded gum surgery can restore the smile to a more aesthetic appearance. It also prevents gum recession and associated complications such as periodontal disease or tooth loss.
Receded gums are common in older adults aged 40 or older. Healthline says that for this reason, it is often misconceived as a normal sign of aging. However, lifestyle factors, medication use, and genetics play a role in the probability of having receding gums.
The Cost of Receding Gum Surgery
Receding gum surgery can be difficult to consider, even for those who need it, as they might fear the cost. However, it can prevent the severe consequences of receded gums, such as infection or tooth loss. It’s a great investment in your overall oral health.
The great thing about this surgery is that it is versatile in its cost; its price can vary according to several factors, such as:
Type of Graft
The type of graft used significantly affects its cost. For example, connective tissue grafts average around $2325; pedicle grafts range from $600 to $1,200 per tooth.
Donor tissue grafts are generally the most expensive option, often exceeding $3,000 depending on the extent of the treatment required.
Severity of Gum Recession
More severe cases require extensive treatment, costing between $700 and $2000 or more.
Geographic Location
Prices vary based on location; major cities might see higher costs than rural areas.
Additional Procedures
If other dental work is needed alongside the grafting, it can add to the overall expenses.
For receding gum surgery, patients can expect to pay between $600 and $3,000, with national averages of around $2,742.
Takeaway
Gum recession is a notoriously common dental issue that affects many individuals. It can often go unnoticed until it has caused excessive recession, which becomes a significant concern. While receding gum surgery can be considered costly, it’s an essential investment to save your gums and teeth.
Annie Edith is an experienced journalist and content creator with a strong passion for health and wellness. She takes a unique approach to her writing, exploring the latest trends in Dental, Fitness, and mental well-being, while providing readers with informative, research-based articles.
