Cost to Fix a Gummy Smile
The cost of fixing a gummy smile can be as inexpensive as $300 to as much as $8,000. Factors that will inform the total cost of treatment include the extensivity of treatment, what, if any additional treatments are necessary to address underlying issues contributing to your gummy smile, how many appointments are necessary, and whether dental sedation is required as part of the treatment process. Additional factors that will contribute to the total cost of treatment include the professional reputation of your dentist or periodontist, the location of the office, and whether you have dental insurance, and if so, whether your plan covers the cost of fixing a gummy smile. Although unlikely, unanticipated complications occurring will also increase total cost of treatment.
Is Fixing a Gummy Smile Worth the Cost?
Fixing a gummy smile is generally considered to be a non-essential procedure that is entirely for cosmetic improvement. As such, you may be uncertain as to whether fixing your gummy smile is worth the cost and time involved. To help you determine whether you should fix your gummy smile, consider the following benefits.
- A more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile
- Restored or enhanced self-confidence
- Some gummy smiles only require minimally-invasive treatment
- Minimally-invasive treatments will have a fast recovery time
- Decreased risk of developing gum disease
Does Dental Insurance Cover Gummy Smile Surgery Cost?
Given that treating a gummy smile is classified as a cosmetic procedure, it is possible that your dental insurance plan will not cover the cost of the procedure. Still, there are cases when a gummy smile is covered, such as when the surgery is required to correct an injury. Also, every dental plan is different, so contact your provider or local clinic to determine if the procedure is covered, and if so, how much of the procedure is covered. If you require multiple treatments to correct your gummy smile, it may help to schedule the first appointment towards the end of the year so your benefits will have refreshed by the time you are ready for your next appointment.
Payment plans may be available, depending on your clinic’s policies. Clinics that do offer this option to their clients typically require a down payment of the total procedure, after which the remaining balance can be paid over an agreed upon period of time. Another popular alternative for patients who do not have insurance are dental discount plans. Dental discount plans were created as an alternative to dental insurance and as a way to avoid rising healthcare costs, limited reimbursement, waiting periods, and yearly caps. As a member of a dental discount plan, you will pay a set annual rate, which will then qualify you for discounts on selected dental procedures. The types of procedures covered and the amount that is covered varies widely from plan to plan, so if you decide to pursue this option, make sure you find a plan that covers the costs of treating a gummy smile.
More on Gummy Smiles : Treatments for Gummy Smiles