Cost of Implants
How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?
The short answer is “It depends.” What does it depend upon? The location of the implant in the jaw, whether the bone has been resorbed and requires bone grafting, any other health conditions that might cause complications, the cost of the actual implant and crown, the doctor’s experience and expertise, and the insurance policy.
The costs are largely dictated by your insurance policy. We will do our very best to maximize your benefits with the insurance carrier. Often your benefits are chosen by the company you work for or the package you selected.
Steps to Place Dental Implants
Placing a dental implant requires several steps, generally involving the oral and maxillofacial surgeon and your general dentist. Many will be combined within the same appointment:
- Examination
- Extraction
- Bone graft or site preservation when indicated
- Placing the Dental Implant – the titanium “tooth root”
- Placing the Abutment and Crown – the connector and porcelain “tooth”
- Office visits, x-rays, pre- and post-surgical care
Continuing Costs of Bridges and Dentures
While Bridges and Dentures are less expensive at the outset, you should consider that both options have sometimes considerable continuing expenses. Bridges, by their structure, cut down the neighboring abutment teeth – which can lead to weakness and repeated treatments. The bridge is a minimal decrease in finances comparatively. Dentures cannot preserve the jawbone the way Dental Implants can, so the jaw shrinks as the bone is resorbed, leading to ill-fitting Dentures and repeated rounds of re-fitting and re-placing. The function of a denture is exponentially decreased compared to implant treatment. Over a lifetime, Dental Implants can be the most cost-effective as well as an aesthetic choice.
Financing for Dental Implants
First, let us check with your dental insurance carrier to see what portion, if any, they will cover. There are health care credit companies that offer no-interest and low-interest loans for medical procedures, including dental implants.
Dental Implants are an investment in your health as well as your appearance. A full set of teeth makes eating a pleasure again, making it easier to eat a balanced, healthy diet. A full set of teeth also preserves the contours of the lip and face, keeping you from looking old before your time.
You will want to discuss all your options with your dentist and oral surgeon, but don’t let the initial fear of cost discourage you from getting Dental Implants. We will be happy to assist you in making an educated decision that will give you peace and satisfaction.