How Much Does Crown Lengthening Cost?
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that involves reshaping the gum tissue and, in some cases, the bone around one or more teeth. Dentists commonly perform this procedure to prepare teeth for crowns. This is especially true if a tooth has broken beneath the gum line or if there isn't enough visible tooth structure for a crown to hold onto. In other cases, crown lengthening can be done for cosmetic reasons, such as reducing the appearance of a "gummy" smile and revealing more of the tooth surface. If you've been advised to have crown lengthening, one of your first questions is probably how much it will cost. Understanding these costs beforehand can help you plan effectively and make informed choices about your dental care.
Average Costs of Crown Lengthening
The cost of crown lengthening varies based on the complexity of your specific procedure. Typically, when the dentist only needs to reshape gum tissue, the cost will range between $800 and $2,000 per tooth. Procedures involving additional work, such as reshaping or removing bone tissue to expose more of the tooth, tend to cost more. These more complex crown lengthening procedures usually range from about $2,000 to $3,000 per tooth.
These prices generally cover the procedure itself and necessary follow-up appointments. They might not include initial consultations, X-rays, or any additional restorative work, such as placing the actual dental crown afterward, however. To avoid surprises, it is important to ask your dentist for a complete breakdown of what the cost covers.
Factors Influencing the Cost
There are several factors that can affect how much your crown lengthening procedure will cost. Being aware of these factors can give you a clearer expectation for your specific situation:
- Location of the Dental Practice: The geographical location of your dentist’s office often influences costs. Dental offices in larger metropolitan areas or places with a higher cost of living usually charge more for procedures like crown lengthening.
- Number of Teeth Requiring Treatment: The number of teeth needing treatment impacts your total cost. Procedures involving multiple teeth are more time-consuming and complicated, which raises the overall cost. Crown lengthening on just a single tooth will usually cost less.
- Complexity and Extent of the Procedure: Some procedures are simpler, involving only reshaping the gum tissue. Others require reshaping or removing some bone, especially in cases where teeth are broken or severely decayed beneath the gums. Procedures involving bone tissue are more complex and will naturally be priced higher due to the additional time and expertise required.
- Type of Anesthesia: Most crown lengthening procedures use local anesthesia. However, if your situation calls for sedation or general anesthesia, the cost will increase.
- Insurance Coverage: Dental insurance significantly influences your out-of-pocket expenses. Insurance typically doesn't cover crown lengthening done for only cosmetic reasons. Procedures deemed medically necessary, such as preparing a tooth for a crown restoration, may be partially covered. It is important to confirm your coverage with your insurance provider and dental office before scheduling your procedure.
Making an Informed Decision
If your dentist has recommended crown lengthening, it’s important to understand the details of your specific case. Ask your dentist directly for a detailed estimate based on your unique situation. By understanding the cost of crown lengthening, you can make informed choices about your dental health and budget confidently for your treatment plan.
