Typical Costs of Gum Depigmentation
Laser Gum Depigmentation
Gingival hyperpigmentation is a condition which can make a patient’s gums appear darker than normal. While the condition can affect anyone, it is more common in patients with darker skin. It is caused by extra melanin in the gum tissue. Other things which can contribute to gingival hyperpigmentation can include smoking, illnesses, and some types of medications. While hyperpigmentation is not considered to be a health issue, it certainly affects the appearance of a patient’s smile. Dark gums can make the patient feel self-conscious and cause them to avoid smiling in public.
Laser gum depigmentation or laser gum bleaching is a treatment which is used to treat dark gums. The dental laser targets affected areas to lighten the areas where there is dark gingival tissue. The goal of the treatment is to make the gums more uniform in their appearance and improve the patient’s smile.
Advanced laser dentistry techniques are extremely effective in helping patients improve the appearance of gingival hyperpigmentation. Specific lasers are used which can minimize the appearance of dark spots on the gums. This eliminates the need for invasive surgery or other types of treatment. Laser have a quick recovery time and the results are virtually immediate. Patients are able to walk out of their treatment with a beautiful smile and healthy, pink gums. The treatment allows patients minimal down time and eliminates the concern of worrying about the gums appearing strange during the healing period.
Below are some of the key benefits associated with the laser gum depigmentation treatment:
1. Dark spots and gum tissue hyperpigmentation is removed with minimal discomfort
2. Treatment achieves healthy, pink gums without the use of scalpels or sutures
3. Quick treatment with minimal recovery time
4. Gums do not bleed
5. Low risk of infection or complications
6. Patients achieve beautiful and healthy gums
Procedure
The treatment will begin with the dentist administering a local anesthetic. This minimizes potential discomfort and ensures the patient remains comfortable while the laser is applied to the gums. Once the tissue is numb, the dentist will treat the darkened areas of the gum and achieve a lighter, more uniform color. The duration of the treatment is highly dependent on the amount of tissue and severity of the color requiring treatment. On average, the treatment takes about 20-45 minutes, depending on the area which is being treated.
The dentist will typically perform laser gum depigmentation in one to two visits. Most patients are able to resume normal activities and return to work immediately following the procedure. The cost for laser gum depigmentation can range from about $2,500 to $4,000 per arch. Because the treatment is considered to be a cosmetic procedure, it is not covered by dental insurance. Some practices may offer a discount for patients who are having both arches treated. Follow up with the dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for gum depigmentation and for the estimated cost associated with the treatment.