Research shows that millions of Americans are missing one or more teeth. This can lead to a variety of oral and overall health issues. Many patients choose to replace their missing teeth with dentures or bridges. While this does restore their appearance and some functionality, there are many disadvantages to these tooth restoration options.
Dental implants are considered the “gold standard” of tooth replacement because they look, feel, and function more like natural teeth than other options. However, this is also among the most expensive dental treatments and dental insurance may or may not cover this procedure.
Dental implants consist of three pieces
Implant: inserted into the jawbone, acts as an artificial tooth root
Abutment: the piece that connects the implant to the crown/tooth restoration
Crown: the artificial tooth that is visible above the gumline
At Diamond Dental, this is one of the most popular tooth restoration solutions we offer. In this article, we’ll explain more about dental implants and their cost.
Benefits of Dental Implants
There are several benefits associated with dental implants. First of all, as mentioned, they are designed to look, feel, and function more like natural teeth. Some of the other benefits are:
- Stimulates jawbone, keeping it healthy
- Prevents facial sagging
- Prevents neighboring teeth from shifting
- Restores speaking and chewing ability
Factors Affecting the Cost of Dental Implants
There are several factors that impact the cost of dental implants, including:
Type of dental implant
At Diamond Dental, we offer traditional implants and mini implants. Mini implants typically cost less than traditional implants.
Location of dental implants
Dental implants can be placed anywhere in the jaw, but front dental implants typically cost more than rear ones because more work is required to build up the jawbone.
Number of teeth being replaced
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or as a support for multiple tooth replacement. A single implant costs less than multiple tooth replacement because at least 2 implants are required if multiple teeth are being replaced.
Additional procedures
The base cost of dental implants covers the implant and the surgery. It does not cover any additional procedures such as extractions, bone grafting, gum disease treatments, and more.
What is the Average Cost of Dental Implants?
The average cost of dental implants varies depending on the above factors. However, on average, you can expect to pay:
Single Dental Implant Cost
A single dental implant typically costs between $1,500 to $6,000, with an average cost of around $5,000.
Multiple Dental Implants Cost
A full mouth restoration with dental implants costs around $40,000. There is a hybrid solution, called All-on-4, which involves the placement of 4 dental implants into the jaw to support an overdenture, costing around $15,000.
You may also consider implant-supported dentures, which are similar to All-on-4, except the overdenture is removable, costing an average of $6,000 to $8,000 per arch.
Tips for Reducing the Cost of Dental Implants
Dental implants are expensive but the benefits make this a worthy investment. Still, there are a few things you can do to reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
First of all, shop around. You don’t have to use the first dentist you talk to. Talk to other providers in the area- and maybe even consider expanding your search. Many times, a dentist in a big city charges more than one outside of the city or one in a rural area.
Talk to the office staff about using your dental insurance benefits. In some cases, dental insurance will cover up to 50% of the treatment costs. However, there are some insurance providers that don’t cover any portion of treatment. We will work with your provider to find out about your coverage. In some situations, we may be able to break up the procedure into several smaller ones to get insurance to cover it or label it as medically necessary.
Talk to your dentist about payment plans. Some dental clinics offer financing options, which allow you to get the treatment you need and make smaller payments over time instead of coming up with the full amount up front.
Considering Dental Implants to Replace Your Missing Teeth?
If you are missing one or more teeth, it’s important to consider your options for tooth restoration. After all, missing teeth can lead to a variety of oral and overall health issues.
Dentures and bridges are effective and affordable, but still put you at risk for oral and overall health issues. One of these issues is jawbone deterioration. Dental implants are considered the “gold standard” because they look, feel, and function the most like natural teeth.
There are several benefits associated with dental implants, including:
- Stimulates jawbone, keeping it healthy
- Prevents facial sagging
- Prevents neighboring teeth from shifting
- Restores speaking and chewing ability
However, this is one of the most expensive options. Therefore, you’ll want to do your research to get the best deal while also choosing a qualified dentist to do the work.
At Diamond Dental, we have a staff of highly qualified dentists that have the experience and expertise to complete this procedure successfully. Schedule your consultation today at either one of our conveniently located offices in Bellingham or Mount Vernon. We are looking forward to meeting with you and helping you determine if dental implants are right for you.
Dental Implant FAQs
The team at Diamond Dental understands that dental implants are a major investment and, if you’re like most of our patients, you have questions and concerns. We will be more than happy to address these with you at any time. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions we hear:
Dental implants have a 95% success rate, with proper care and maintenance. However, certain medical conditions and lifestyle habits may impact the success or failure of dental implants.
A single dental implant is used to replace a single tooth, while multiple dental implants are used to support a bridge or overdenture.
There are a few risks associated with getting dental implants including sinus damage, nerve damage, and infection. However, these risks can be mitigated by working with a highly trained dentist such as those at Diamond Dental.
The implant itself is placed in one appointment. However, the entire process takes a minimum of several months because you must wait until osseointegration has completed before the crown or prosthesis can be placed. Osseointegration is the process of the jawbone healing around and fusing with the implant.
Yes, there are alternatives to dental implants. A dental bridge is an option for patients who have some remaining natural teeth and dentures are an option for those who are missing most or all of their natural teeth. However, these come with several disadvantages.
