How Much Does Gum Contouring Cost?

Gum contouring or gum reshaping is when the soft tissue of the gums is proportionally out of balance with the white enamel of the teeth. Often called a gummy smile, as your lips naturally part to form a smile you see more gum than teeth. This can be a genetic flaw the result of a disease or prescription medications that caused the gums to grow over the teeth. In most cases this corrective procedure is cosmetic and may not be covered by insurance. Before we get into the cost ranges for gum contouring lets first discuss the value of your smile. Your smile is a fundamental element of your mental health. Your smile is the foundation of your self-esteem and your self-confidence. Your smile will affect your interactions both personally and professionally. So, a we address the costs that translate directly to improving your smile, try to put a value on your smile. It is a difficult task.

A Definition of a Gummy Smile

When you smile the natural amount of soft tissue seen is usually around two to three millimeters. It is considered a gummy smile when that smile is dominated by more gum tissue amounting to over four millimeters. This imbalance creates an undesirable perception of short and stubby teeth.

The Gum Contouring Procedure

Your dentist or periodontist can use one of two tools to perform this cosmetic procedure. They can use a traditional surgical scalpel or they may have a newer dental laser. In either situation, the gums will be numbed first with a local anesthetic. After that has begun to work the dentist will create a nice even gum line with either tool. The laser is advantageous because it cauterizes the tissue upon removal minimizing any blood loss. The scalpel will have some bleeding until the tissue clots.

The Ranges in Cost of Gum Contouring

The procedure has a very wide range in anticipated costs. It can range anywhere from $50 to $350 per tooth. You may have five teeth involved and each tooth might have a different cost. This range reflects the region of the country first. Both coasts will be more expensive than the Midwest. The location of the teeth involved and the amount of tissue to be removed will be crucial factors. A dental laser versus a surgical scalpel will affect the outcome as well. If the time and effort becomes more extensive involving more tissue removal and even some bone work on the roots it can extend up to $1,000 to $3,000 per tooth. At that time, the objective may be more medical than cosmetic and insurance will play a bigger role in reducing your out of pocket expenses.

The Benefits of Gum Contouring

You will see immediate results with the procedure making the effort worthwhile as you admire your improved smile. At times the procedure might be advantageous for gum disease and the depth of the pockets around certain teeth. It also is the perfect opportunity for you to reset your at-home oral hygiene to maintain a good, healthy smile.

More on Gum Contouring : Gum Contouring Healing & Aftercare