Cost to Fix Diastema

With so much of our lives captured in pictures and on video, having a perfectly aligned smile is almost universally sought after.  While some people are genetically gifted a perfectly aligned set of teeth, some are not so lucky and suffer from gaps or spaces that create aesthetic challenges.  Patients suffering from gaps or excessive spaces between teeth, known as diastema, have likely investigated corrective treatment options and may be curious of the cost associated with the treatments available today.

Diastema Treatments and Related Costs

Teeth Effect Bands:  Sometimes referred to as teeth gap bands, these small non-latex rubber bands are placed over the teeth at night to slowly pull teeth together.  Teeth effect bands cost between $4-30 for 50-100 bands so while inexpensive, the process can be somewhat painful.  Additionally, dentists warn that new gaps could be created as one gap is closed and could pull the teeth crooked or potentially loosen a tooth from its socket leading to long-term issues.

Dental Bonding:  A cosmetic procedure that places tooth-colored composite resin on the teeth adjacent to a gap, dental bonding costs can range dramatically based on the extent or complexity of the gap.  For small, simple gaps, bonding costs can be as low as $100-$200 per tooth.  Should the gap be more extensive, costs can run between $800-$1,000 per tooth.  Since bonding typically involves two teeth, total costs can range from $200-$2,000 and because bonding it considered a cosmetic (elective) procedure, it is not typically covered by insurance.

Dental Veneers:  Veneers are custom made, thin shells that are placed over a patient’s teeth.  Traditional veneers are made of porcelain, require removing some tooth enamel to properly fit, and cost $500-$1,000 or more per tooth.  An alternative to porcelain, Lumineers do not require the removal of tooth enamel prior to placement but are slightly more expensive ranging from $700-$1,300 per tooth.  Similar to dental bonding, dental veneers are generally not covered by insurance.

Dental Crowns:  Ideal for gaps caused by damage or cavities, dental crowns come in several forms and costs range accordingly.  Porcelain fused to metal crowns are generally the least expensive option and cost $500-$1,500 per tooth.  Metal crowns (made of base metal or gold alloys) are the next price point and cost $500-$2,500 per tooth.  All-porcelain crowns are typically the most expensive option and will cost $800-$3,000 per tooth.  When used for purely cosmetic reasons, crowns are usually not covered by insurance but if deemed medically necessary, some insurance carriers may cover up to 50% of the cost.

Braces:  Like the other treatments reviewed, the cost for braces varies based on the extent of the gap and the number of teeth involved.  Should the gap only effect the six top front teeth, partial braces can be used and average $2,000-$3,000.  If a gap is small, a retainer may be able to fix the problem at a cost of $500-$2,500.  However, if other problems also need to be corrected, a full set of braces may be needed and can run $1,500-$13,000 depending on the type used.  After braces are removed, it may still be necessary to use a retainer which can also increase the cost to the patient.  Insurance companies often cover braces for patients up to 18 year of age but not in adults.

Labial Frenectomy:  For patients with gaps caused by an overlarge frenum, the membrane that attaches the cheeks to the gums and jaw, this procedure removes the excess tissue.  The procedure is fairly simple and costs between $250-$1,200 depending on the extent of the overgrowth and dentist’s rates.  Frenectomy costs are not typically covered by insurance.

More on Diastema : What Causes Diastema?