Last updated on June 17, 2026
Cost is one of the first questions most patients ask when referred to a periodontist. The answer depends on several variables — the severity of the gum disease, the treatment required, and whether surgical care is needed. This guide covers what drives periodontal treatment costs in Australia, what you can expect at Smile Specialists Suite, and how private health insurance may reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
What Affects the Cost of Periodontal Treatment?
Periodontal treatment is not a single procedure — it encompasses a range of clinical interventions, from non-surgical deep cleaning through to complex reconstructive surgery. The cost of your treatment depends on: the stage and severity of the gum disease; the number of teeth or areas of the mouth involved; whether non-surgical or surgical treatment is required; whether bone grafting, gum grafting, or regenerative procedures are part of the plan; and how many appointments are needed to complete the initial treatment course.
Specialist periodontist fees reflect the additional three or more years of full-time training completed beyond a dental degree, along with the complexity of cases managed at a specialist level. For moderate to severe gum disease, this expertise translates to more predictable, evidence-based outcomes.
Consultation Fee at Smile Specialists Suite
The initial consultation at Smile Specialists Suite is $398 for a one-hour appointment with a specialist periodontist. A deposit of $120 is required to secure the booking. The consultation includes a comprehensive clinical examination of the teeth and gums, a review of dental and medical history, and a personalised diagnosis. At the end of the appointment, patients leave with a written treatment plan that itemises the recommended procedures and their associated costs. For more information about our specialist periodontists, visit the about page.
Non-Surgical Treatment Costs
Non-surgical periodontal treatment — typically periodontal debridement or scaling and root planing — is the first active treatment stage for most patients. In Australia, this ranges from approximately $100 to $400 per quadrant for localised treatment, or $800 to $1,900 for a full-mouth programme, depending on the severity of the disease and the number of sessions required.
At Smile Specialists Suite, the preferred non-surgical technique is GBT (Guided Biofilm Therapy). This technology-driven approach uses precision instruments to remove biofilm and calculus more effectively and with less tissue trauma than traditional scaling and root planing. Patients consistently report less discomfort and a faster recovery.
Surgical Treatment Costs
Patients with advanced periodontitis, peri-implantitis or significant gum recession may require surgery. Periodontal surgical procedures include flap surgery, bone grafting, gum grafting, crown lengthening, and guided tissue regeneration — each with different fee ranges based on complexity, number of teeth, and materials used.
As a general guide, periodontal surgery in Australia ranges from approximately $600 to $3,000 or more per procedure, depending on complexity. Mucogingival procedures such as gum grafting may be quoted per tooth. Exact fees are always provided in writing following the initial consultation at Smile Specialists Suite — no patient proceeds to treatment without a full cost breakdown.
Private Health Insurance and Rebates
Periodontal treatment may attract a benefit under extras or major dental cover, depending on your health fund and your level of policy. Coverage varies significantly between funds — some policies provide a meaningful rebate on specialist consultations and surgical procedures, while others offer little or nothing for specialist care.
Before your appointment, contact your health fund directly and ask what rebate applies to: a specialist periodontist consultation, periodontal debridement, and any specific procedures outlined in your treatment plan. Knowing your entitlements in advance avoids surprises. The Smile Specialists Suite team is also available to assist with health fund queries. For a list of frequently asked questions about treatment and costs, see the FAQ page.
Medicare does not cover private periodontal treatment in most cases. Some patients with eligible chronic conditions may qualify for limited dental benefits through the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan — speak to your GP for clarification.
Book a Consultation at Smile Specialists Suite
Professor Alessandro Quaranta and Dr Lizzy Hui see patients at clinics in Neutral Bay, Sydney and Newcastle, NSW. Appointments are available within five weeks. To arrange an assessment or ask questions about treatment costs, contact the team online or call (02) 9908 5588.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a periodontist consultation cost in Australia?
The initial one-hour consultation at Smile Specialists Suite is $398. A deposit of $120 is required at booking. The consultation includes a full clinical examination, medical and dental history review, diagnosis, and a written treatment plan with itemised costs.
Does private health insurance cover periodontal treatment?
Periodontal treatment may attract a rebate under extras or major dental cover, depending on your health fund and policy level. Coverage varies significantly. Contact your insurer before your appointment and ask specifically about specialist periodontal consultations and any treatment items in your plan.
How much does gum disease treatment cost in Australia?
Non-surgical treatment (periodontal debridement or deep cleaning) typically ranges from $800 to $1,900 for full-mouth treatment, depending on severity and number of sessions. Surgical procedures such as flap surgery, bone grafting or gum grafting carry higher fees, which are quoted individually following the initial consultation.
Is a periodontist more expensive than a general dentist for gum treatment?
Specialist periodontist fees are generally higher than general dental fees because periodontists complete three or more additional years of full-time specialist training after their dental degree. For moderate to severe gum disease, specialist-level care typically results in more predictable outcomes, which can reduce the need for repeat treatment over time.
What is included in the $398 consultation at Smile Specialists Suite?
The $398 initial consultation includes a one-hour appointment with a specialist periodontist, a comprehensive clinical examination of the teeth and gums, medical and dental history review, a personalised diagnosis, and a written treatment plan with a full cost breakdown. X-rays may be taken where clinically indicated.
Does Medicare cover periodontal treatment?
Medicare does not cover private periodontal treatment in most cases. Some patients may qualify for limited dental benefits through the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan via their GP. Speak with your GP to determine whether you are eligible and what procedures are covered.
How do I find out the exact cost of my periodontal treatment?
The most accurate way is to book an initial consultation. Every patient at Smile Specialists Suite receives a detailed written quote following the assessment. Call (02) 9908 5588 or book online to arrange an appointment in Neutral Bay or Newcastle.
About The Author
Professor Alessandro Quaranta
Professor Alessandro Quaranta (Prof Q) has been in specialist practice for 15 years since completing his specialist training from the “University of Rome,” La Sapienza”, the top university in Italy* and the largest University in Europe.
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