Average Cost of a Gingivectomy?
A gingivectomy is the removal of your gum tissue, or the gingiva. A gingivectomy is used to treat conditions such as gingivitis. It is also used to remove extra gum tissue for cosmetic reasons, like improving and balancing your smile.
Are You a Candidate for a Gingivectomy?
Your dentist could recommend a gingivectomy if you have some gum recession from:
- A gum disease, like gingivitis.
- Natural aging.
- A bacterial infection.
- An injury.
A Gingivectomy for Gum Disease
If you are suffering from gum disease, your dentist will recommend this procedure to avoid future gum damage as well as allowing easier access to your teeth for cleaning.
Gum disease can create gaps and pockets that promote the increased buildup of bacteria, plaque, and calculus or tartar. Those buildups will all lead to further damage.
Your dentist could suggest a gingivectomy if they identify gum disease or an infection during an exam and want to stop the progression.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A gingivectomy will usually take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the amount of gum tissue is removed.
A minor procedure around just one tooth, or just a few teeth, will take one visit. Major gum removal or reshaping might take several visits, allowing one area to heal before the next area is addressed.
Here is how the gingivectomy works:
- A local anesthetic is first administered to numb the immediate area.
- Your dentist then uses a scalpel or a laser to remove some gum tissue. This is a soft tissue incision.
- During your procedure, your dentist will usually keep a suction tool in your mouth to monitor saliva.
- Once the tissue has been removed, your dentist could use a laser tool to vaporize any additional tissue and to reshape and contour the gumline.
- A soft putty-like substance and bandages might be applied while your gums heal.
The Recovery Process
You could experience some discomfort. You will be instructed to eat just soft foods to avoid irritating or damaging your gums during the healing process.
You might apply a cold compress to your cheek to soothe any discomfort or irritation. Using a warm saltwater rinse is beneficial to keep the area free of bacteria but you should avoid mouthwash or other antiseptic liquids.
You may also need to take an antibiotic to prevent infection. Soreness will subside in about a week. Take good care of your teeth by brushing and flossing twice a day, avoid tobacco, and reduce sugar.
How Much Does a Gingivectomy Cost?
Your costs for a gingivectomy could range from $200 to $400 per tooth. Your dentist might charge less for multiple teeth, usually up to 3, treated in a single session.
If you have dental insurance, a gingivectomy is likely covered by your plan if it is to treat periodontal disease or an injury. The cost varies depending on the amount of gum removed and how many sessions it takes.
Your insurance may not cover it if it is done for elective cosmetic reasons.
Gingivectomy is a low-risk procedure for restoring damaged gum tissue or to improve the appearance of your smile. Recovery is minimal and the outcome is often quite positive.