Search thousands of topics on CostHelper

BROWSE ALL TOPICS >> babies & children  cars  consumer electronics health & personal care home & garden personal finance  pets  schools small business sports weddings
CostHelper > Health & Personal Care  > Dentistry & Orthodontics > Gum Tissue Graft

Gum Tissue Graft Cost


How Much Does a Gum Tissue Graft Cost?

 
average costTissue Graft: $600-$1,200 per areahigh costGraft with Contouring: $1,000-$3,000 per area

Gums may recede over time due to aggressive brushing, disease or simply a genetic predisposition for thin gum tissue. As the gum recedes it exposes the tooth root, and in some cases this makes the tooth sensitive to hot or cold. A soft tissue graft may be used to cover an exposed root to eliminate this sensitivity or to improve the tooth's appearance. The American Academy of Periodontology provides before and after photos[1] .

Typical costs:

  • A gum tissue graft can cost $600-$1,200 for a single procedure at the base of one tooth or in a specific small area, depending the extent of the gum recession, the type of tissue used (from the patient's mouth or a tissue bank) and the periodontist[2] (gum specialist) or dentist. Grafts using material from a tissue bank (the tissue is taken from cadavers) typically cost more than those done with tissue harvested from elsewhere in the patient's mouth.
  • Gum contouring -- trimming the gums into a more pleasing appearance -- may be performed at the same time as a tissue graft, bringing the total cost to $1,000-$3,000 per area.
Related articles: Gum Repair, Gum Contouring, Dental Bone Graft, Teeth Cleaning, Dental X-Rays, Dental Work

What should be included:
  • A gum graft is typically done in the office of a periodontist, although some dentists also perform this procedure. The doctor will numb the area and in some cases provide a mild sedative to relax the patient; general anesthesia may be used with an anxious patient, but isn't common. A small cut is made at the graft site to create a sort of pocket or tunnel, the graft tissue is placed inside this tunnel and the area is stitched to close it. WebMD provides an overview of gum tissue grafts[3] .
  • If the graft tissue was harvested from the patient's mouth, the area may be covered with a sort of putty until the stitches are removed, or the patient may be given a mouth guard (also called a stent) to wear that covers most of the roof of the mouth to help prevent bleeding, to stop the patient's tongue from playing with the stitches and to keep food from getting into the site.
  • Patients are advised to avoid strenuous or aerobic activity for several days after a gum tissue graft, but most people are able to return to work within a day or two. If the procedure used tissue from a tissue bank there is usually mild to moderate discomfort and healing takes about two to four days. If the graft tissue was harvested from the roof of the patient's mouth the discomfort can be moderate to severe, and healing might take seven to 10 days. A Texas periodontal group explains what to expect after tissue graft surgery[4] .
Additional costs:
  • Treatment for gum disease usually begins with a periodontal diagnosis exam and X-Rays, which can cost an additional $150-$400 if not included in the quoted price.
Discounts:
  • The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research lists tips for finding low-cost dental care[5] .
  • Dental school clinics[6] offer reduced rates for services by supervised students or faculty.
Shopping for a gum tissue graft:
  • If the patient has dental insurance, the insurance company will provide a list of approved dentists and periodontists. Or search for local members of the American Dental Association[7] , American Academy of Periodontology[8] or the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists[9]
  • A dentist will typically provide a referral to local periodontists. When selecting a periodontist, ask about length of time in practice, recent training and treatment philosophies (some favor more conservative non-surgical procedures while others treat periodontal disease aggressively with surgery). YourDentistryGuide.com provides tips for choosing a periodontist[10] .
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
 
post Post   Comments (16)  
CostHelper News


7 Lesser-Known Discounts for the 50+ Crowd
As they age, members of the Baby Boomer generation don't like to admit that they're senior citizens, but they love getting discounts. It's kind of a quandary, because some of the best deals available are reduced prices for older folks. || Posted October 21 2013


7 Ways to Stretch Your Reduced Food Budget
End of the year budgets are tight for everyone, especially in this economy.It's especially hard for the millions of Americans who depend on government programs like food stamps to help make ends meet. || Posted November 11 2013

‣ All CostHelper Blog Posts


What People Are Paying - Recent Comments
$3100
Amount: $3,100.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: MAG in Glastonbury, CT.Posted: November 13th, 2021 12:11PM
Number of Areas: 1Dentist/Periodontist: Periodontist
This was my proposed cost not covered by insurance. Hesitating now after reading what others have paid.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Connective tissue graft
Amount: $1,300.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: a user in Marlton, NJ.Posted: June 9th, 2020 12:06PM
Number of Areas: 3Dentist/Periodontist: Periodontist
Had to get a connective tissue graft for three of my teeth on my lower left and likely will need a few more done down the road (genetics). The procedure took about an hour and was pain-free. That night, I had some slight discomfort, but nothing some strong Ibeuprofin couldn't take care of. Currently on day 2, feel just a little discomfort, otherwise fine.
Insurance would have paid 80% but hit my maximum.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Gum Grafting on thin gums
Amount: $2,835.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: Nervous after reading reviews on pain leve in San Antonio, TX.Posted: October 22nd, 2019 03:10PM
Number of Areas: 3 teeth next to each otherDentist/Periodontist: Periodontist
The tissue is being grafted from the roof of my mouth. This is an estimate. The periodontist gave me the codes and I called my insurance to see what they will pay. My periodontist is out of network. The contracted amount the insurance allows is way less than what periodontists normally charge. For that reason, a lot of periodontists do not accept my insurance. It is military dental insurance.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Subepithelial connective tissue graft
Amount: $951.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: SPSmith in Greenville, NC.Posted: October 14th, 2019 11:10AM
Number of Areas: 4Dentist/Periodontist: ECU School of Dental Medicine
Periodontist instructor/professor performed the procedure using my tissue from the roof of my mouth on 4 upper right teeth. This was the last of 4 procedures done this year on 2-3 teeth each surgery in each quadrant of my mouth. Made a big difference in my smile and healthy, thicker gums over previously exposed roots from 62 yrs of improper brushing back and forth. Some post surgical swelling for a few days. Graft site totally self-repaired within a week. The entire healing process was far less painful than natural childbirth. Recommend university dental clinics for everything from cleaning g, exams, fillings, implants, crowns, tissue grafts, etc. Huge cost savings plus top dental professionals.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
I’m crying
Amount: $8,400.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: @Batyahh in Nyc, NY.Posted: August 7th, 2019 05:08AM
Number of Areas: Entire mouthDentist/Periodontist: Nyc
I’ve never been in more pain in my life, I can’t stop crying, my face is huge I’m talking like 5 times the sizes, I can’t talk or eat. I feel like getting this at 21 will make me a stronger woman for the future.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Gum Graft
Amount: $450.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: GumTissue in New York City, NY.Posted: June 2nd, 2019 12:06PM
Number of Areas: 1Dentist/Periodontist: Periodontist
$2,450 for one tooth on 38th St in NYC. Gum tissue harvested from the roof of my mouth. I got this surgery done last week, age 25.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Gum graft with alloderm
Amount: $0.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: a user in Westin, MA.Posted: April 19th, 2016 06:04PM
Number of Areas: 3Dentist/Periodontist:
$5,800 for 3 teeth
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Gum graft
Amount: $1,571.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: L l Hood in Rochester, NY.Posted: April 19th, 2016 04:04PM
Number of Areas: 30,31Dentist/Periodontist: Periodontist
This is my third gum graft. I will do it again, yes there is some pain but it is manageable. I used my own tissue harvested from the roof of my mouth. I love my periodontist - she is awesome. It does take a few weeks to be completely but it is so worth it
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Alloderm gum graft
Amount: $5,200.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: Kit in Phoenix, AZ.Posted: November 19th, 2015 03:11AM
Number of Areas: 13 teethDentist/Periodontist: Periodontist
I have very thin gum tissue that has worn away near some roots and receded. I wanted to not have to do this twice so I opted to do all trouble spots at once. Using my own tissue was not an option because it is so thin. The periodontist assured me there would be very little pain since she wasn't taking tissue from my palate. The surgery took 3 hours instead of the expected 2. I had to ask for more novacaine 4 times but other than that wasn't that bad. I had only a pill to relax prior to surgery. When I got out of the chair my teeth were throbbing. I told the doctor I needed prescription pain meds which fortunately she gave me a script for. The recovery has been much harder than expected. For the first three days the pain was 9 on a 10 point scale. My face swelled and bruised to my sternum. I could not open my mouth or speak easily. My face was burning hot. The pain felt like I had very sensitive teeth and someone was putting ice on them. I am on day 8 and much better but still swollen.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Alloderm Tissue Grafting Teeth 6-11
Amount: $4,000.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: Kayla_RN in Paris, TX.Posted: July 18th, 2015 11:07AM
Number of Areas: 6Dentist/Periodontist:
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Osseous surgery 4 or quad
Amount: $275.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: J,M. in Augusta, GA.Posted: March 25th, 2015 06:03PM
Number of Areas: 4Dentist/Periodontist: Periodontist-resident
He has plans to do more areas but I don't think so. This was probably the most painful procedure I've ever had done in my mouth & I've had lots. The roof of my mouth took a long time to heal & I'm still not sure if graft is successful. I'll find out Monday. Had the procedure done almost 4 weeks ago. Not for me.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
alloderm on 3 teeth
Amount: $1,400.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: lmcgilli in folsom, CA.Posted: February 16th, 2015 08:02PM
Number of Areas: 3-4Dentist/Periodontist: periodontist
2015but it didnt come upon your list
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Gum grafting
Amount: $1,000.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: kja in Corinth, TX.Posted: July 8th, 2014 08:07AM
Number of Areas: 7Dentist/Periodontist:
I have received a estimate for $1000 PER TOOTH. My insurance will not cover any of it. I can't afford $7000 dollars. I don't understand why necessary surgery isn't covered.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Soft Tissue Gum Grafting
Amount: $300.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: spitfire1958 in Huntsville, AL.Posted: April 17th, 2014 12:04PM
Number of Areas: 1Dentist/Periodontist: Knight
Grafting over 11, 12, & 13 with 3/4" x 1/4" strip harvested from roof of mouth. Within 3 hours needed pain relief, but had nothing in house. Was able to hold warm salt water in mouth (no swishing) briefly. Son finally home from work and got me ibuprofen for pain. Unable to drink or eat due to pain and numbness. Total cost for entire procedure (including four more teeth down the road) $4,500. $900 paid by me and balance (hopefully) by insurance. April 17, 2014.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Gum graft
Amount: $512.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: Bspin in Sebring, FL.Posted: October 29th, 2013 07:10PM
Number of Areas: 3Dentist/Periodontist: Kirsch
Had tissue graft. Minimal pain post op. Minimal bruising. Total cost of prcedure $925.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam
Gum grafting
Amount: $280.00 not covered by insurance
Posted by: Hpla in Princeton, NJ.Posted: June 20th, 2013 04:06PM
Number of Areas: 2Dentist/Periodontist: Chalker
To have tissue not harvested from the roof of my mouth was not covered by insurance and would have cost $300 more. My mouth is killing me-- it may have been worth paying an extra $300! Total cost before insurance was $1400 (80% coinsurance so I pay 20% or $280) for two teeth areas.
Was this post helpful to you?   yes     no Report prohibited or spam


 

Comment On Your Experience With a Gum Tissue Graft
 
Subject:  *
Amount Spent:  * not covered by insurance
Number of Areas: Dentist/Periodontist: 
Comments: 
Purchased:  Year: 
City:  * State:  *
 
Information about you:
Email:  * Email addresses are not displayed.
Name:  This is the name we'll display with your post.
me on this computer
*=required field.
 



External Resources:
  1.  www.perio.org/consumer/grafts.htm
  2.  www.perio.org/consumer/periodontist2.htm
  3.  www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gum-tissue-graft-surgery
  4.  www.ntxpa.com/pages/post_softtiss.htm
  5.  www.nidcr.nih.gov/oralhealth/popularpublications/findinglowcostdentalcare/
  6.  www.ada.org/267.aspx
  7.  www.mouthhealthy.org/en/find-a-dentist.aspx
  8.  www.perio.org/?q=locator-advanced
  9.  www.aacd.com/index.php?module=aacd.websiteforms&cmd=memberreferral
  10.  www.yourdentistryguide.com/periodontists/
More Health & Personal Care Topics
Check Out All Costs for Health & Personal Care How Much Does Chemotherapy Cost? How Much Does Growing Medical Marijuana Outdoors Cost? How Much Do Crutches Cost?

Search Thousands of Topics on CostHelper.com

 
Today's Featured Cost Articles

About CostHelper
CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.

CostHelper Community
UTI urgent care visit
Paid: 147.00
Visit was $135. Antibiotics was $12. Waiting for four hours in the waiting room and the visit was quick... [more]
-nervouschomper
Urinary Tract Infection Treatment Cost
Spanish Medical Interpreter
Paid: 150.00
I worked with SynShyne Services out of Monroe, NC. They were so worth the price! Professional, friendly, accurate, great attitude and always on time. I recieved an itemized report after every contact and a user friendly invoice weekly... [more]
-Gregory Richardson
Interpreter Cost
Dat
Paid: 495.00
This is how much I am paying... [more]
-Calista Christian
Dental Admission Test Cost
Shingrix
Paid: 48.00
... [more]
-Not that BB
Shingles Vaccine Cost
Skin prick allergy test
Paid: 573.00
Took my 9 yr. old in after an allergic reaction to eggs. Several panels for nuts, fish & top 8 allergens. Sure enough, egg came up. Got a script for epinephrine and left... [more]
-D’s mom
Allergy Testing Cost
Estimate for Teeth Cleaning Cat
Paid: 0.00
13 year old cat …teeth extractions, X-rays, blood work, anesthetic, cleaning estimate 2 to 3 thousand... [more]
-Terrimarie
Cat Teeth Cleaning Cost