Typical Costs of Gum Depigmentation

Gum depigmentation, also known as gum whitening or bleaching, is a procedure used in cosmetic dentistry to remove black spots or patches on the gums. This procedure aims to reduce or eliminate hyperpigmentation of the gums, which can be caused by factors such as genetics, smoking, or the use of certain medications. The dark pigmentation of the gums is generally due to the presence of melanin, and depigmentation allows you to obtain gums of a more uniform and lighter color, thus improving the appearance of the smile. If you have darker gums and are looking to solve this problem, we are here to help.

What are black gums? Are they a health problem or purely aesthetic?

When we talk about black gums, we are talking about a dark hyper-coloration of the gums caused by the excessive presence of melanin deposited by a type of cells, called melanocytes. In general, hyperpigmentation is not a health problem, but rather an aesthetic discomfort that does not involve any health risks. There are different degrees of intensity of hyperpigmentation that we see regularly:

  • pink gum tissue, no pigmentation
  • light brown gum tissue, slight pigmentation
  • medium brown-brown/pink gum tissue, moderate clinical pigmentation
  • deep brown-black-blue fabric, strong pigmentation

There are a few different techniques used for gum depigmentation. These will depend on the severity of your hyperpigmentation.

Laser depigmentation is one of the most common techniques. The laser is used to selectively remove melanin from the gums without damaging the surrounding tissues. The treatment is non-invasive, not very painful and has quick recovery times.

Surgical depigmentation can also be used. In this case, the upper part of the gum containing the pigmentation is removed using surgical instruments. It is a more invasive surgery and requires a longer recovery period, with possible risks of infection or bleeding.

Costs of gum depigmentation

The cost of gum depigmentation can vary greatly depending on the clinic, the city, the technique used, and the experience of the professional.

Generally speaking, laser depigmentation is charged by the session, and multiple sessions might be indicated. The cost for a session can range from $500 to $2,500, depending on the area and amount of treatment needed. For surgical gum depigmentation, the costs can be a bit higher due to the more involved nature of the procedures used. The cost for a gingivectomy treatment can range between $1,000 and $3,000 or more, again depending on the complexity of your case.

Please note that follow-up is often required, and there may be additional costs for post-operative follow-up or any complications.

Considerations for gum depigmentation

Initial Consultation: Before undergoing the procedure, an evaluation with a trained dentist is important to determine if depigmentation is right for you and to discuss exact costs.

Dental Insurance: In general, gum depigmentation is considered a cosmetic treatment and is not covered by dental health insurance unless it is performed for medical reasons.

In Conclusion

If you are interested in gum depigmentation, please reach out to our office. Through a thorough evaluation of your case and let you know any costs associated with it. We will also go over payment options with you.

What is Gum Depigmentation?