If you have receding gums, you might be concerned about your dental health. Gum tissue grafting can help restore your smile. This treatment effectively addresses moderate to severe gum recession.
If your dentist recommends this procedure, you may have questions about the process, its cost, and how to cover expenses not covered by your insurance.
Gum recession is a condition in which gum tissue wears away. This leads to the exposure of tooth roots, causing pain and sensitivity. If left untreated, it increases the risk of cavities, infections, and tooth loss. Read on to discover the cost and longevity of gum tissue grafting.
What is Gum Grafting?
A gum graft is a surgical procedure designed to address gum recession. This treatment replaces lost gum tissue, helping to enhance oral health. The procedure is typically performed by a specialist known as a periodontist. Your dentists at Enhance Dental Centre are very experienced in this procedure and can perform it without additional referrals!
Gum Grafting Procedure
There are several types of gum grafts, each chosen based on the extent of damage and the patient’s specific needs. A periodontist or a dentist experienced in periodontics will discuss all available options and select the most suitable one for your case. Before the surgery, they will administer local anesthesia to ensure you feel no pain. Additionally, the periodontist may lift some gum tissue to clean the exposed tooth root.
Basically, there are three types of gum graft surgery:
- Connective Tissue Grafts: A periodontist creates a flap in the roof of the mouth to access tissue beneath the surface. This tissue is stitched onto the existing gum to cover the exposed tooth root, and the flap is then closed.
- Free Gingival Grafts: Ideal for patients with thin gingiva, this method involves removing tissue from the top layer of the roof of the mouth and stitching it to the gum area needing coverage.
- Pedicle grafts: This technique is suitable for those with adequate healthy gum tissue adjacent to the exposed tooth. The periodontist partially cuts tissue from the neighboring gums while keeping one edge attached, then pulls it over the exposed tooth root and secures it.
In some cases, a periodontist may use tissue taken from a tissue bank instead of harvesting it from the patient’s mouth.
How Long Does a Gum Graft Last?
The good news is that gum grafts performed by a skilled dentist can provide long-lasting solutions for receding gums. When done properly, a gum graft may last a lifetime. However, several factors influence its longevity:
Type of Graft Material
Grafts from your own mouth, like connective tissue or gingival grafts, typically last the longest. Donor or synthetic grafts may need more follow-ups and possible additional treatments.
Surgical Technique
The dentist’s skill plays a crucial role. Gentle techniques that ensure proper tissue positioning and blood flow contribute to better healing.
Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene post-surgery is vital. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings help prevent plaque buildup and gum inflammation.
Other Dental Health Conditions
Additional dental issues can contribute to poor gum health, such as teeth grinding and not using a nightguard can increase the movement of your teeth and cause gum recession. Crowding due to wisdom teeth, genetics or other orthodontic issues can push teeth out of alignment putting additional strain on your gum tissue and causing recession.
Underlying Health Conditions
Health issues like diabetes or uncontrolled autoimmune diseases can impede healing and increase the risk of graft failure. It’s important for your dentist to consider your health history.
Lifestyle Habits
Smoking negatively affects blood circulation and slows healing, increasing the likelihood of graft failure. Quitting smoking or avoiding secondhand smoke is essential for successful gum grafting.
How to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Gum Graft?
To help your gum graft succeed and last longer, consider these tips:
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Adhere to your dentist’s guidelines regarding diet and oral care for optimal healing.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking diminishes blood flow and slows healing. Aim to quit before and after surgery to enhance success rates.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular check-ups allow for monitoring of your gums and the graft site, helping to catch any issues early.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, and keep up with dental cleanings to prevent buildup of calculus around your teeth that can widen your gums. Typically patients that struggle with gum recession require more regular teeth cleaning appointments such as every 3 or 4 month visits. .
- Manage Health Conditions: Work with your doctor to control any health issues, like diabetes, as they can impact healing.
What is the Average Cost of a Gum Graft?
The cost of a gum graft varies based on the treatment area and the number of teeth involved, typically ranging from $900 to $1,600 per tooth or area depending on your own situation. Fortunately, some good dental insurances may cover part of the cost since this procedure is needed to prevent periodontal disease. If you have concerns about cost, you can discuss it with your administrative team at Enhance Dental Centre. We offer payment plans that can help you achieve a healthy and long lasting smile.
Factors Affecting Gum Grafting Cost
The cost of gum grafting surgery can vary based on several factors:
- Severity of Gum Recession: The extent of gum recession and the type of graft material used can impact the overall price. More complex cases requiring specialized materials may be more expensive.
- General Dentist Practices vs Dedicated Specialist Practice: Dedicated specialists offices tend to charge additional costs as they are typically located in more expensive and high profile retail locations using additional equipment and materials that are typically suited to very complex cases in addition to typical gum grafting. A certified periodontist may charge more for their services. We at Enhance Dental Centre have a proven track record, expertise and high success rate that you can rely on without the need of expensive specialists fees
- Anesthesia Type: The kind of anesthesia used—whether local or general—can influence costs. General anesthesia typically adds to the overall expense.
- Number of Teeth: The total cost will increase with the number of teeth requiring treatment, as each graft will add to the overall price.
- Origin of Gum Tissue: If tissue is sourced from a tissue bank rather than the patient’s own mouth, this may lead to higher costs.
- Gum Contouring: If gum contouring is included to enhance aesthetic appearance, it will also add to the total price.
These factors can collectively influence the final cost of gum grafting, making it essential to discuss specifics with your dental provider.
Conclusion
Gum grafting is a significant and rewarding investment in your oral health and smile. It provides long-lasting protection against gum recession and its associated complications. While costs can vary based on factors like the extent of treatment and the type of graft used, the results are generally durable and can last for many years, especially with proper care and regular dental visits.
At Enhance Dental Centre, our experienced team offers high-quality gum grafting services tailored to your needs. If you’re dealing with gum recession or want to explore your treatment options, contact us today to schedule a personalized consultation. Let us help you protect your smile and maintain healthy gums for the future.
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