Typical Costs of Gum Depigmentation
What is the treatment for gum whitening or gum depigmentation?
Teeth whitening uses whitening chemicals, whereas gum whitening (gum depigmentation) involves scraping or removing the pigmented layer. By means of an appropriate technique, the layer containing the stains on the gum is scraped off, as if it were a gingival peeling. In all procedures, the patient receives local anesthesia, surgical cement can be used (protection of the surgical wound), because of its sensitivity and also because of the use of equipment.
The surgical procedure
Gingival whitening is performed under local anesthesia and takes a total of about one hour. This technique consists of removing melanin (brown protein that pigments the skin) by dermabrasion, that is, a superficial desquamation of the gum capable of removing these pigments. After this procedure, there will be the formation of a new epithelial tissue, pink in color and free of stains. This new layer of gum can already be seen in approximately 72 hours, and, in just 7 days, a significant aesthetic result is achieved. After 15 days, the patient no longer has any sensitivity, and the tissue is completely restored.
What are the precautions after gum whitening surgery?
Right after the procedure, the dentist makes recommendations regarding medication (when necessary), oral hygiene and food, usually to avoid ingesting foods with the potential to cause irritation, such as acidic, very salty or spicy foods. In most cases, the patient recovers well and without pain.
In 2 days, the gums already acquire a rosy setting and in 1 week the gums reach an advanced state of healing. As with any treatment, the dentist must indicate which is the best option for his patient, taking into account expectations and possible results. In addition, each case is specific and only an individual assessment can determine the procedure that will be done. Gingival Peeling or Gum Whitening
Post op
In gingival peeling, the postoperative period is simple, but, as in any surgical procedure, certain guidelines must be correctly followed to achieve a complete recovery and achieve the expected results. In addition to using the indicated medication (generally anti-inflammatories and analgesics), ultra-soft toothbrushes should be used, with mouthwash containing chlorhexidine. You should not smoke for 15 days, in addition to not ingesting alcoholic beverages or citrus foods, hot and with a harder consistency. As there is an exposed “wound” in the region, one should not come into contact with other people's secretions or saliva to avoid contagion.
Are its effects permanent?
Like teeth whitening, gum whitening may also require touch-ups. There is no way to predict recurrence, but in general, after a period of 2 to 3 years, there is new melanin formation, leading to the need to repeat the procedure.
The costs associated with gum depigmentation
While the cost of every procedure in your dentist’s office will vary according to each case, in general, gum depigmentation costs around $2,500-$4,000 per arch of your teeth- top and bottom. Because this is generally a cosmetic procedure, it is generally not covered by insurance. We recommend working with your dental office to discuss payment plans or other means of financing this procedure, such as credit or loans.