Gum Graft Costs in the UK
Gum grafting, also known as gingival grafting, is a periodontal procedure used to treat receding gums and protect exposed tooth roots. This procedure can improve both the health and appearance of your gums, preventing further recession and reducing sensitivity.
💡 Gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and aesthetic concerns. Understanding the costs involved in gum graft surgery and what factors influence pricing can help you make informed decisions about this important periodontal treatment.
How Much is Gum Graft Surgery in the UK?
Private Gum Graft (Single Tooth): £400 to £1,200 per tooth, depending on the technique used and clinic location.
Private Gum Graft (Multiple Teeth): £1,200 to £3,500 for treating 3-4 teeth in one session.
NHS Gum Graft (when eligible): £282.80 (Band 3 treatment), though NHS gum grafts are rare and only available for severe cases affecting oral health.
For example, a single gum graft at a private periodontal practice in London typically costs around £600 to £900, while clinics in Manchester may charge £500 to £800. The London Perio Centre offers gum grafts from £650 per tooth, while specialist periodontists in Birmingham charge around £550 to £750 per graft. Multiple teeth treated in one session often qualify for package pricing, reducing the cost per tooth.
Factors that Affect the Cost of Gum Graft in the UK
🔧 Grafting Technique
Different gum grafting techniques affect costs. Connective tissue grafts (the most common) typically cost £500 to £900 per tooth, while free gingival grafts (using tissue from the roof of the mouth) may cost £400 to £700. Allograft procedures (using donor tissue) can cost £600 to £1,200 per tooth but eliminate the need for a second surgical site.
📊 Number of Teeth
Treating multiple teeth in one session often qualifies for package pricing, reducing the cost per tooth. A single graft may cost £600, while treating four teeth might cost £2,000 (£500 per tooth). However, some cases may require multiple sessions, which increases total costs.
👨⚕️ Periodontist vs General Dentist
Specialist periodontists charge premium rates for their expertise, typically 20-30% more than general dentists performing gum grafts. However, periodontists have extensive training in gum surgery and may achieve better results, particularly for complex cases. General dentists may refer complex cases to periodontists, which adds to costs.
🏥 Clinic Location
Practices in London and the South East charge premium rates, often 25-35% higher than clinics in other regions. Specialist periodontal practices in prestigious areas like Harley Street may charge £800 to £1,200 per graft, while practices in other cities typically charge £500 to £800.
🔬 Case Complexity
Simple cases with minimal recession cost less than complex cases requiring extensive grafting, bone regeneration, or multiple procedures. Cases involving significant bone loss may require additional procedures like bone grafting, which adds £300 to £800 to the total cost. Some people may need multiple sessions over time.
How to Save Money on Gum Graft in the UK
💡 Check NHS Eligibility
While NHS gum grafts are rare, they may be available if gum recession is causing significant oral health problems. NHS treatment costs £282.80 (Band 3) compared to hundreds or thousands privately. However, NHS treatment is typically only available for severe cases, and waiting lists can be long.
🏥 Compare Multiple Periodontists
Get consultations from at least three different periodontists or periodontal practices. Prices and treatment approaches can vary significantly. Some practices offer package pricing for multiple teeth, while others charge per tooth regardless of quantity. Always ask what's included in the quoted price (consultation, follow-up appointments, etc.).
💷 Ask About Payment Plans
Many periodontal practices offer payment plans for gum graft surgery, allowing you to spread the cost over 6-12 months. Monthly payments typically range from £100 to £300, making treatment more manageable. Some clinics offer 0% finance options for qualified patients.
🔍 Consider Treatment Timing
If you need multiple grafts, discuss whether treating all areas in one session is possible, which may qualify for package pricing. However, some cases require staged treatment over multiple sessions for optimal healing. Your periodontist will recommend the best approach for your specific situation.
✨ Explore Alternative Treatments
For mild gum recession, less invasive treatments like scaling and root planing or pinhole surgical technique may be options. These alternatives cost less than traditional gum grafts but may not be suitable for all cases. Discuss all treatment options with your periodontist to find the most appropriate and cost-effective solution.
FAQs
How much does gum graft surgery cost?
Gum graft surgery costs £400 to £1,200 per tooth privately, or £282.80 on the NHS if you qualify. The cost depends on the grafting technique used, the number of teeth treated, whether you see a specialist periodontist, and your location. Multiple teeth treated in one session often qualify for package pricing, reducing the cost per tooth.
Is gum graft covered by the NHS?
NHS gum grafts are rare and only available if gum recession is causing significant oral health problems. If you qualify, NHS treatment costs £282.80 (Band 3). However, most gum grafts are performed privately, as NHS treatment is typically reserved for severe cases affecting oral function or health.
How long does gum graft surgery take?
Gum graft surgery typically takes 45-90 minutes per tooth, depending on the technique used and complexity of the case. Multiple teeth can be treated in one session, which may take 2-3 hours. Recovery time varies, but most people can return to normal activities within a few days, with full healing taking 4-6 weeks.
Does gum graft surgery hurt?
Gum graft surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, so the procedure itself is not painful. Some people experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after the anaesthetic wears off, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. The donor site (if tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth) may be more uncomfortable than the graft site.
How long do gum grafts last?
Gum grafts can last many years or even permanently with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care. However, the success depends on maintaining good oral health, avoiding aggressive brushing, and addressing any underlying causes of gum recession. Some people may need additional grafts in the future if recession continues in other areas.
Conclusion
🎯 Gum graft surgery costs £400 to £1,200 per tooth privately, or £282.80 on the NHS if you qualify for treatment. While the upfront cost is significant, gum grafts can prevent further recession, reduce sensitivity, and improve both oral health and aesthetics. Compare multiple periodontists, explore payment plans, and consider package pricing for multiple teeth to make this important treatment more affordable. With proper care, gum grafts can provide long-lasting protection for your teeth and gums.
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Jane Smith |
| Am British, live in London (1985–present) |
