How Much Does Gum Graft Surgery Cost?
Gum graft surgery costs between $600 and $6,000 in 2026, with most patients paying $1,500 to $3,000 for a standard procedure involving one to three teeth. The wide price range reflects differences in graft type, the number of teeth treated, geographic location, and whether you have dental insurance. According to data from the Fair Health Consumer database and American Academy of Periodontology estimates, the average cost per tooth for a connective tissue graft is approximately $1,200 to $1,800.
Gum graft surgery — also called gingival grafting or soft tissue grafting — is a periodontal procedure that repairs receding gums by transplanting tissue to exposed tooth roots. Left untreated, gum recession can lead to root decay, increased sensitivity, and tooth loss. The procedure is performed by a periodontist or oral surgeon, typically under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis.
Your final cost depends heavily on whether the graft tissue comes from your own palate (autograft), a tissue bank (allograft), or a synthetic material, as well as how many teeth need treatment. Below, we break down every cost factor so you can plan your budget accurately.
Cost by Gum Graft Type
| Graft Type | Average Cost (Per Tooth) | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Connective Tissue Graft | $1,500 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Free Gingival Graft | $1,200 | $800–$2,000 |
| Allograft (AlloDerm / Donor Tissue) | $1,800 | $1,200–$3,000 |
| Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) | $2,000 | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Multiple Teeth (4–6 teeth) | $4,000 | $2,500–$6,000 |
The connective tissue graft is the most commonly performed type and is considered the gold standard for root coverage. The Pinhole Surgical Technique is a newer, minimally invasive option that commands a premium price but offers faster recovery and no palate donor site.
Gum Graft Surgery Cost by State
| State | Average Cost (Per Tooth) | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| California | $1,800 | $1,200–$3,000 |
| New York | $1,900 | $1,300–$3,200 |
| Texas | $1,300 | $800–$2,200 |
| Florida | $1,400 | $900–$2,400 |
| Illinois | $1,500 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Pennsylvania | $1,400 | $900–$2,300 |
| Ohio | $1,200 | $800–$2,000 |
| Georgia | $1,250 | $800–$2,100 |
| North Carolina | $1,300 | $850–$2,200 |
| Arizona | $1,350 | $900–$2,300 |
| Colorado | $1,450 | $950–$2,400 |
| Massachusetts | $1,800 | $1,200–$3,000 |
Major metropolitan areas like New York City, San Francisco, and Boston consistently rank among the most expensive markets for periodontal procedures. Patients in the Southeast and Midwest can expect to save 15–30% compared to coastal urban centers.
Insurance vs. No Insurance
| Coverage Type | Typical Out-of-Pocket Cost | What's Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Private Dental Insurance | $400–$1,500 per tooth | 50–80% of procedure cost after deductible; subject to annual maximum ($1,500–$2,500) |
| Dental PPO Plan | $500–$1,200 per tooth | Higher coverage for in-network periodontists; negotiated rates reduce total cost |
| Medicare (Traditional) | Full cost ($1,200–$2,500+) | Not covered under Original Medicare Parts A & B |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | $400–$1,500 per tooth | Some plans include dental benefits; coverage varies widely by plan |
| Medicaid | $0–$500 per tooth | Coverage varies by state; many states cover medically necessary periodontal surgery for adults |
| No Insurance | $1,200–$3,000+ per tooth | Patient pays full fee; cash-pay discounts of 10–20% often available |
For insurance to cover gum graft surgery, the procedure must typically be classified as medically necessary — meaning there is documented gum recession, bone loss, or periodontal disease threatening tooth stability. Cosmetic gum grafting to improve smile aesthetics is generally not covered.
Cost Breakdown: What's Included
- Initial Consultation & Exam: $100–$300 (may be waived if you proceed with surgery)
- Diagnostic X-rays (periapical/panoramic): $25–$250
- Periodontist/Surgeon Fee: $800–$2,500 per tooth (the largest portion of the total cost)
- Graft Material (if allograft/AlloDerm): $200–$800 (included in surgeon fee for autografts)
- Local Anesthesia: Typically included in the surgical fee
- Sedation (IV or oral, if requested): $200–$600 additional
- Prescription Medications: $30–$100 (antibiotics, pain medication, antimicrobial rinse)
- Follow-Up Visits (1–3 appointments): $50–$150 each (sometimes included)
Always request an itemized treatment plan before scheduling your procedure. Some practices bundle all costs into a single fee, while others bill each component separately.
Factors That Affect Gum Graft Surgery Cost
Number of Teeth Treated
This is the single biggest cost driver. Treating one tooth may cost $1,200–$1,800, while grafting six teeth in one session can reach $4,000–$6,000. However, treating multiple teeth at once is more cost-effective per tooth than separate procedures.
Type of Graft Material
Autografts (tissue from your own palate) have no material cost but require a second surgical site. Allografts using donor tissue like AlloDerm add $200–$800 in material costs but eliminate palate harvesting pain. Synthetic or xenograft materials fall in a similar range.
Geographic Location
Periodontists in high-cost-of-living areas charge significantly more. A connective tissue graft in Manhattan may cost $2,500+ while the same procedure in suburban Ohio may be $1,000–$1,400.
Periodontist Experience & Credentials
Board-certified periodontists with advanced training or specialization in microsurgical techniques typically charge 20–40% more than general dentists performing gum grafts. However, their higher success rates often justify the premium.
Facility Type
Most gum grafts are performed in the periodontist's office under local anesthesia, which keeps facility costs low. If the procedure is performed in a surgical center or hospital (rare, but sometimes necessary for complex cases), facility fees of $500–$1,500 may apply.
Severity of Recession
Miller Class I and II recession (mild to moderate) are more straightforward and less expensive to treat. Miller Class III and IV recession (severe, with bone loss) may require additional bone grafting or guided tissue regeneration, adding $500–$2,000 to the total cost.
How to Save Money on Gum Graft Surgery
- Get Multiple Consultations: Prices can vary 30–50% between periodontists in the same city. Get at least 2–3 quotes before committing. Many offices offer free or low-cost initial consultations.
- Ask About Cash-Pay Discounts: Many periodontists offer 10–20% discounts for patients who pay the full amount upfront without insurance. This can save $200–$500 on a typical procedure.
- Use a Dental School Clinic: University periodontal programs offer gum graft surgery at 40–60% below private practice rates. Procedures are performed by supervised residents. Expect longer appointment times but significant savings.
- Maximize Your Insurance Benefits: If you need multiple teeth treated, consider splitting the procedure across two calendar years to use two annual maximums. Confirm pre-authorization before scheduling.
- Use HSA or FSA Funds: Gum graft surgery is an eligible expense for Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts, effectively saving you 20–35% by paying with pre-tax dollars.
- Consider a Dental Discount Plan: If you lack insurance, dental discount plans (like DentalPlans.com) cost $80–$200/year and provide 20–50% off periodontal procedures at participating providers.
- Treat Multiple Teeth at Once: Periodontists often offer reduced per-tooth pricing when treating several teeth in a single session, saving on anesthesia and facility time.
Financing Options
| Option | Details | Typical Terms |
|---|---|---|
| CareCredit | Medical credit card accepted by most periodontists | 0% APR for 6–24 months; 26.99% APR after promo period |
| Proceed Finance | Healthcare lending with fixed rates | APR from 7.99%–29.99%; terms 12–60 months |
| In-Office Payment Plans | Many practices offer interest-free installments | 2–6 monthly payments; no credit check at some offices |
| HSA/FSA | Pre-tax healthcare savings accounts | Tax savings of 20–35%; no interest; use existing funds |
| Personal Loan | Bank or credit union unsecured loan | APR from 6%–36%; terms 12–60 months |
| Dental Discount Plan | Annual membership for reduced fees | $80–$200/year; 20–50% off listed fees |
Pro Tips from Dental Professionals
Don't delay treatment to save money. Gum recession is progressive — the longer you wait, the more tissue is lost and the more complex (and expensive) the repair becomes. A $1,500 graft today can prevent a $5,000 implant tomorrow.
Ask your periodontist about the Pinhole Technique. While it costs more upfront, the Pinhole Surgical Technique can treat multiple teeth in one visit with faster recovery and no palate donor site. For patients needing work on 4+ teeth, the total cost may actually be comparable to traditional grafting.
Request a pre-treatment estimate from your insurance company. Submit a pre-authorization (also called a pre-determination) before scheduling. This gives you the exact dollar amount your plan will cover, eliminating surprise bills after the procedure.
Invest in prevention after your graft. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoid aggressive brushing, and wear a night guard if you grind your teeth. Protecting your graft investment costs very little but can prevent the need for repeat surgery, which would double your total expense.