Dental care is often put off because of the cost of visits and treatments. However, neglecting dental care can cost you more in the future. Neglecting dental care can be a serious problem, with more than 50% of adults in Western Australia alone recently admitting that they haven’t had a checkup in over a year!
Reshaping your gums is typically a cosmetic procedure. As cosmetic dentistry is generally considered an elective or optional procedure, most dental health insurance plans likely won’t cover the entire procedure, even if it’s necessary.
How much does gum reshaping cost? Keep reading to learn the average price.
Average Gum Reshaping Cost
The average cost of gum reshaping can vary depending on several factors. Someone requiring more tissue work will likely pay more, and the local rates in the area also affect the price.
The cost can range from $125 to $350 per tooth. Gum contouring treatment is, therefore, mainly determined by the number of teeth affected.
Gum reshaping is generally considered cosmetic dental care. This means your insurance is unlikely to cover the procedure.
However, if a cosmetic dentist recommends this procedure for oral health reasons, your insurance may pay for some of it.
When Is Gum Reshaping Medically Recommended?
Since cosmetic dentistry is not usually covered by insurance, you may have to pay the full price out of pocket. Gum reshaping is often medically recommended and not just used for a smile makeover.
Gum contouring can be a treatment option for those with some types of periodontal or gum disease. First, a dentist will try to treat this disease with other methods.
Dental cleanings and antibiotics can help kill the bacteria. These methods are generally covered under your insurance plan.
If these options fail, a dentist will recommend procedures like pocket reduction surgery or gum regeneration, which might include gum contouring. After an initial dental consult, talk to your health insurance provider to see if your procedure is covered.
What Does Dental Insurance Cover?
Dental insurance coverage depends on your specific plan. A typical plan covers regular cleanings, checkups, and X-rays.
Dental insurance may cover preventive dental care, basic dental care, and partial coverage for major dental care. While cosmetic dentistry is not included in a traditional dental insurance plan, you have other options, such as:
- Dental Payment Plans
- Dental Financing
- Care Credit
- Personal savings
Since many cosmetic dental procedures are considered elective, health insurance providers may not cover the procedure. This is why dental insurance doesn’t generally cover teeth whitening and Invisalign aligners.
The best plan of action is to check with your provider if you require a gum lift or gum contouring for medical purposes. Your health insurer may pay up to 50% of the total cost, but policies vary, and it is important to contact your provider to clarify.
If the procedure is not medically necessary, it would be wise to ask about your cosmetic dental procedure coverage options.
Next, talk to your dentist. Some dental clinics offer payment plans or financing to help you pay the total cost over time. Dental financing is a personal loan to help you make manageable monthly payments.
A dentist may offer a payment plan so you don’t have to pay additional interest to get a dental loan.
You can also use your personal savings if you have any.
Choosing a Dental Health Insurance Plan that is Right for You
There are many different dental health insurance plans and providers available. If you frequently receive cosmetic dental procedures, finding a plan that works with your needs is key.
A few dental insurance providers offer cosmetic dentistry coverage. You’ll have access to comprehensive coverage for general and specialty dental treatment year-round.
Many plans cover 100% of the cost of preventive dental care and up to 80% of the basic dental care, which may include treating gum disease.
Gum Reshaping Process
A cosmetic dentist like Dr Rosh can reshape your gums in one dental office visit. You’ll receive local anesthesia to numb your mouth, but you should be awake for the relatively quick and painless procedure.
If you experience dental anxiety, talk to your dentist beforehand. They may be able to give you something stronger to help with the nerves.
During the gum reshaping process, the dentist removes excess gum tissues using a laser or scalpel and exposes more of the tooth or teeth to reshape the gums. At Adelaide Cosmetic Dentistry, we use a medical-grade BioLase laser.
Does the Procedure Hurt?
Before the procedure starts, you are given local anesthesia that numbs the gums. This prevents you from feeling pain while the dentist is working on contouring your gums.
After the procedure is complete, you are likely to feel some discomfort. The tenderness and numbness depend on how much of the gums have been removed or reshaped.
You can take over-the-counter pain medication for the discomfort. Aspirin can cause bleeding, so ask your dentist what they recommend. They may prescribe something for you.
If you experience swelling, use a cold compress or ice pack for 20 minutes at a time.
Reshape Your Gums With Adelaide Cosmetic Dentistry
How much does gum reshaping cost? The cost can range from $125 to $350 per tooth. Dental insurance may cover up to 50% of the total cost if you require gum shaping for medical reasons.
When you want to improve your appearance and get rid of a gummy smile, choose us. Adelaide Cosmetic Dentistry has over 20 years of experience with patients who want to feel good about their smile.
We use the latest technology to achieve optimal results. Dr. Roshanak Amrein strives to provide the best dental care in a comfortable environment. Schedule a consultation now to get started.
