Gum Recession Surgery: Is It the Same as Gum Removal?

Q: Gum Recession Surgery: Is It the Same as Gum Removal?

Hello： It is recommended that you visit a larger hospital to seek treatment from a periodontist.

Gingival recession surgery

After I had my wisdom teeth removed, the gums around my last two teeth became elevated.
I have periodontal disease and often experience swelling and pain, so I go to the clinic for dental cleanings.
The doctor suggested a gum recession surgery, but I couldn't find much information on it.
However, I did come across a gum resection surgery.
Are these the same? The clinic told me that the surgery is not covered by insurance and costs 15,000 NT dollars, but I found that gum resection surgery is covered by insurance.
Is that correct?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/17

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: It is recommended that you visit a larger hospital to seek treatment from a periodontist.

Reply Date: 2017/01/17

More Info

Understanding gum recession surgery and its distinction from gum removal is crucial for anyone facing periodontal issues. Gum recession surgery, also known as gum grafting, is a procedure aimed at restoring the gum tissue that has receded from the teeth. This condition can lead to sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and aesthetic concerns. The surgery typically involves taking tissue from another part of the mouth (often the palate) and grafting it onto the affected area to cover exposed tooth roots and promote healing.

On the other hand, gum removal, or gingivectomy, is a different procedure. It involves the surgical removal of gum tissue, often performed to treat gum disease or to reshape the gums for cosmetic reasons. While both procedures involve surgical intervention on the gums, their purposes and outcomes are quite different. Gum recession surgery aims to restore lost tissue, while gum removal focuses on eliminating diseased or excess tissue.

Regarding your concern about insurance coverage, it is essential to understand that coverage can vary significantly based on the specific procedure and the patient's individual insurance plan. In many cases, gum recession surgery may not be covered by insurance, especially if it is deemed cosmetic. However, if the procedure is necessary for health reasons, such as preventing further periodontal disease or addressing significant gum recession, some insurance plans may provide partial coverage.

In contrast, gingivectomy is often covered by insurance when performed for medical reasons, such as treating periodontal disease. The coverage may depend on the documentation provided by your dentist or periodontist, which should detail the necessity of the procedure based on your specific dental health condition.

If you are considering gum recession surgery, it is advisable to discuss all your options with your dentist or periodontist. They can provide clarity on the differences between the procedures, the associated costs, and the likelihood of insurance coverage. Additionally, they can help you understand the potential benefits and risks of each procedure, allowing you to make an informed decision about your dental health.

In summary, gum recession surgery and gum removal are not the same; they serve different purposes in dental care. Understanding these differences is vital for making informed decisions about your treatment options. Always consult with your dental care provider to discuss your specific situation, treatment options, and financial considerations, including insurance coverage.

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