Average Cost of a Gingivectomy?

A gingivectomy is the removal of your gum tissue, or gingiva, by simple surgery. A gingivectomy is used to treat a condition like gingivitis. It is also performed to remove extra gum tissue for cosmetic reasons, like improving and balancing your smile.

Are You a Candidate for a Gingivectomy?

Your dentist may recommend a gingivectomy if you have gum recession from:

  • A gum disease, like gingivitis.
  • Natural aging.
  • A bacterial infection.
  • A gum injury.

A Gingivectomy for Gum Disease

If you are suffering from gum disease, your dentist may recommend a gingivectomy to prevent future gum damage and to also allow easier access to your teeth for cleaning.

Gum disease quite often creates pockets and gaps that accelerate the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and calculus or tartar. These buildups will promote 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 a Gingivectomy

A gingivectomy can take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the amount of gum tissue being removed.

A minor procedure involving a single tooth, or just a few teeth, should take just one visit. Major gum removal or reshaping will take several visits, to allow one area to heal prior to addressing the next area.

Here are the steps of the procedure:

  • First, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the immediate area.
  • Your dentist will then use either a scalpel or a laser to remove small pieces of gum tissue. This is referred to as a soft tissue incision.
  • During your procedure, your dentist will keep a suction tool in your mouth to control saliva.
  • Once the soft tissue has been removed, your dentist may use a laser tool to vaporize any remaining unwanted tissue and to finish shaping and contouring the gumline.
  • A soft putty-like substance and bandages are used if necessary to protect your gums while they heal.

The Recovery Process

You may initially experience some discomfort. It will be suggested to eat only soft foods so that eating will not irritate or damage your gums as they heal.

You can also apply a cold compress to your cheeks to soothe any discomfort. Using a warm saltwater rinse or saline solution is beneficial to minimize bacteria but avoid common mouthwashes.

You may also need an antibiotic to prevent gum infections. Any soreness will diminish after a week. Create good habits by brushing and flossing twice a day, avoiding smoking, and reducing sugar.

How Much Does a Gingivectomy Cost?

Your out-of-pocket costs for a gingivectomy may range from $200 to $400 per tooth. Your dentist might charge less for multiple teeth, usually up to three, done in one appointment.

If you have dental insurance, a gingivectomy should be covered by your plan if it is performed to treat gum disease or a mouth injury. The cost will vary depending on the amount of gum removed and how many visits it takes to complete.

Your insurance probably will not cover the procedure if it is done for elective cosmetic reasons.

Gingivectomy is a safe, low-cost procedure for correcting damaged gum tissue or to improve the appearance of your smile. Recovery is minimal and the results are positive.

Gum Appearance and Gingivectomy