How Much Does Periodontitis Treatment Cost?
Periodontitis, also known as periodontal disease or gum disease, is a serious inflammatory condition that affects millions of Americans. As gingivitis progresses to mild, moderate, or severe periodontitis, the risk of serious health concerns increases along with treatment costs. Join us for everything you need to know about the average cost of periodontitis treatment and how much of the expense may be covered by dental insurance.
How is periodontitis treated?
Your provider will develop a treatment plan based on the severity of your condition and the health of your gums.
Non-surgical treatments
Non-surgical treatments are usually the first line of defense against the early stages of periodontitis. Techniques may include:
Antibiotics: Systemic and local antibiotics help eliminate the bacteria causing bad breath and gum infections.
Scaling and root planing: A deep-cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to discourage bacterial buildup.
Laser therapy: Lasers can be used to remove diseased tissue and reduce bacterial growth.
Surgical treatments
More advanced stages of gum disease require more aggressive treatment plans:
Flap surgery (pocket reduction): Gums are pulled back to clean deeper tartar deposits and reshape underlying bone. Then, gums are tightly sutured to reduce pocket depth.
Gum graft: Counteracts gum recession using tissue from other parts of the mouth.
Bone graft: Uses natural or synthetic bone to rebuild the jaw that’s been weakened by decay.
Other considerations
Great oral hygiene is key to preventive care, but it can also help you reverse periodontal disease in the early stages. Brushing and flossing twice a day, maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, and eating a healthy diet are essential for optimal oral health.
Related: What Are the Stages of Periodontal Disease?
Does insurance cover the cost of periodontitis treatment?
The cost of periodontitis treatment can vary significantly from patient to patient. Here are a few factors to consider as you budget for your treatment:
Dental insurance coverage
Most dental insurance plans will pay at least part of your periodontitis treatment cost, but the amount will depend on your specific policy coverage. Some plans will cover 50% to 80% of non-surgical gum disease treatment and a lower percentage of surgical expenses.
In some cases, your insurance provider may pay for periodontal maintenance visits every three to four months, so be sure to read the fine print to make the most of your benefits.
Medical insurance coverage
Since gum disease treatment is typically considered a type of dental care, most medical insurance plans do not cover the cost of periodontitis treatment. However, some exceptions exist.
Your plan may include coverage for medically necessary treatment costs due to another medical condition, such as an upcoming organ transplant or cardiac surgery. Patients with diabetes or heart disease may also be eligible for overlapping coverage.
What factors influence the cost of periodontal treatment?
The cost of your periodontitis treatment will vary based on a variety of factors, including:
Geographic location
Provider’s expertise
Severity of disease
Number of quadrants affected
Frequency of maintenance visits
Materials used
Insurance coverage
Related: Can Periodontal Disease Be Reversed?
How much does periodontitis treatment cost?
Now, let’s explore the cost of periodontitis treatment using national statistics to help you get a better idea of your overall expenses. Keep in mind that these are approximations. Your dentist’s office can provide you with more accurate estimates based on your unique condition and insurance coverage.
Periodontitis treatment cost with insurance
Assuming your dental insurance covers 50% to 80% of periodontitis treatment costs, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per quadrant for scaling, root planing, and other nonsurgical procedures. Your cost for surgical treatments may range from $100 to $600 per site for grafts, or $300 to $1,600 per quadrant for flap surgery.
Periodontitis treatment cost without insurance
Without dental insurance, the cost for periodontitis treatment will likely be at least double that of an insurance holder. For example, Scaling and root planing may cost between $600 and $1,600 per quadrant, while flap surgery may run $3,000 or more per quadrant. Complex cases involving full-mouth procedures and multiple grafts could easily cost $10,000 or more.
Financing options and payment plans
Those numbers may be staggering, but don’t be discouraged. Most dental offices understand the strain that extensive treatments can place on your finances. They will be happy to help you work out a payment plan that works with your budget.
Other options may include specialized medical or dental credit cards, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, third-party financing companies, and personal loans or lines of credit. You can also reach out to dental schools or community clinics that offer periodontitis treatment at a reduced cost.
Related: How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal or a Filling?
Explore your treatment options at Coral Reef Dental!
Prioritizing your oral health is about more than maintaining a sparkling smile – it also impacts your overall health and well-being. If your teeth and gums require professional support, reach out to the team at Coral Reef Dental today!