How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
When you are missing teeth, activities that you don’t give much thought to such as chewing and speaking become challenging. Plus, your risk of additional oral and overall health issues increases. This is why tooth replacement procedures are so popular.
Most people choose dentures because they are the most affordable. However, they come with many disadvantages that can further complicate things. Dental implants, on the other hand, are a lot like natural teeth because they are implanted into the jawbone. The primary disadvantage is the cost.
Dr. Gary Login Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry in Brookline, MA offers several tooth replacement options including dental implants. In this article, we’ll explain what you need to understand about the cost of dental implants.
Average Cost of Dental Implants
On average, a single dental implant costs around $5,000. This covers the cost of the implant device and the procedure to place it. However, there are several factors to consider when it comes to determining your cost.
It’s important to keep in mind that most dental insurance providers will not cover dental implants. However, your provider may cover additional procedures such as extractions, gum disease treatment, and more. Our office staff will work with your provider to determine your coverage.
What Goes into the Cost of Dental Implants?
There are several things that go into determining the cost of a dental implant procedure, including:
- Number of implants
- Dental implant material
- Location of the dental implants
- Experience/expertise of the dentist
- Location of the dental clinic
- Additional procedures required
- Dental insurance coverage
Factors Impacting the Cost of Dental Implants
There are several factors that can impact the cost of dental implants:
Number of implants
The number of implants has a major impact on the cost. A single implant can cost an average of $5,000. The cost of replacing each tooth with a single implant can be up to $90,000 or more.
However, there are hybrid options such as All-on-4 that can help reduce the cost. All-on-4 is a system that replaces an entire arch of missing teeth supported by 4 dental implants strategically placed in the jaw. The average cost of this option is $12,000 per arch.
Dental Implant Material
The typical material for dental implants is titanium for the implant screw and porcelain for the crown. However, some patients have an allergy to some of the other metals included in titanium, which means they need zirconia- a type of ceramic. This can increase the cost. On the other hand, you may be able to reduce the cost of your implants by choosing a composite resin prosthesis- but this isn’t as durable as porcelain and may need to be replaced earlier.
Location of the Implants
The location of the implants can impact the cost. A front tooth implant is easier to access, which means it will not cost as much as a back molar.
Experience/Expertise of the dentist
The experience and expertise of the dentist will impact the cost. A dentist who is just getting started may not charge as much as one that has been working in the field for a while. However, it is also important to note that a newer dentist may not have the experience and expertise necessary- increasing your risk of implant failure.
Location of the Dental Clinic
The cost of living in the area where the clinic is located can have a major impact on the cost of dental implants. A clinic located in a busy metropolitan area will have higher fees than one located on the outskirts of town in a more rural location.
Additional Procedures Required
If you require any additional procedures, these can significantly increase the cost of your dental implants. These will be discussed below.
Dental Insurance Coverage
While implants do offer functional benefits, most dental insurance providers classify this procedure as cosmetic. This means that they will not cover any portion of the procedure- but they may still cover a portion of the prep procedures. If not, we do offer financing options to make paying for these procedures easier.
Other Costs Associated with Dental Implants
You may have additional costs associated with your dental implant procedure, including:
Dental exams/x-rays
Many times, the initial consultation exam and x-rays will be included in the cost of the procedure. Also, many dental insurance providers will cover these procedures. On the other hand, if these services are not included in the fee or are not covered by insurance you could end up paying an additional $200 to $450 or more.
Bone Grafting & Sinus Lifting
In order to ensure successful implant placement, you need adequate bone density. If not, you may need to have the bone reinforced with bone grafting. On average, this will add about $600 to the cost of implants.
If your upper jawbone is lacking the required density, you may need a sinus lift. This will reduce the risk of damage to your sinus cavity. This procedure will add an average of $2,500 to the cost of your procedure.
Tooth Extractions
If you have teeth that are badly damaged or decayed, you may need tooth extractions. Many dental insurance providers will cover a portion of this procedure. However, if not, you could pay an average of $75 to $250 or more per tooth.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is included in the base cost of dental implant surgery. If you require conscious oral or IV sedation, you can add an average of $50 to $200 to the cost. On the other hand, if you require general anesthesia, it can add several hundred dollars to the procedure. This is because general anesthesia requires the presence of an anesthesiologist.
Specialist Care
Dental implants can be placed by a general dentist, as long as they have been trained in implantology. If you need the services of an oral surgeon or another dental/oral specialist, your cost will increase because you are paying for their expertise.
Are Dental Implants Worth it?
Dental implants are the most expensive tooth replacement option. However, this is also the most like natural teeth, compared to other options. Therefore, when considering the cost of dental implants, think about all of the benefits you’ll be able to access including improving your overall quality of life.
Most of our patients agree that dental implants are well worth the cost. Think of it as an investment into your future.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation with Dr. Login
If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be the best option. Schedule your consultation today with Dr. Gary Login and the team in Harvard Street in Brookline, MA. We can help you restore the appearance and functionality of your smile- and keep your mouth healthy.
Dental Implant FAQs
Dr. Login knows that cosmetic and restorative procedures such as dental implants can be confusing. If you’re like a lot of patients, you may have some questions and/or concerns. We will be more than happy to discuss these with you because we believe that the more information a patient has, the greater the chances of satisfaction with the procedure.
