7 Key Factors That Affect The Cost Of Dental Implants

Dental implants can improve your smile, boost your self-confidence, and restore your natural ability to bite and chew, making them an excellent investment for your oral health.

Whether you lost a single tooth or an entire row of teeth, you might have heard about dental implants as the ideal solution. Unfortunately, when people learn how much dental implants cost, they have second thoughts.

Although dental implants have a higher price than other similar devices, the results are long-lasting, attractive, and stable. Unlike other tooth replacement options available today, dental implants substitute for the crown and root of any lost teeth. (1) 

A reputable implant dentist will take the time to provide you with a walkthrough of the procedure, outlining the treatment cost and helping you budget for the procedure. Continue reading to learn more about the elements that influence the price of a dental implant procedure.

1. The total number of dental implants

The number of dental implants necessary to complete the restoration is one of the significant cost factors. If you’re missing one tooth, a simple, single-tooth implant is enough. However, if you’re missing several teeth, replacing them with implants is possible, but it can drive up the total cost. When you undergo replacements at different times, it can affect the overall price.

• Material type

A titanium root and a ceramic crown are the most common materials for dental implants. A small metal screw links the two pieces, but the screw can be an integral part of the crown in some models.

Biocomposite dental implants allow for successful integration with the jawbone without triggering an allergic reaction or being rejected by the body. Generally, titanium is often the ideal material for implants as it’s durable, well-tolerated by the jaw, and resistant to corrosion. (2) 

Some dentists also use zirconia, a biocompatible ceramic material in white or beige to match natural teeth. The price difference between zirconia and titanium implants is significant.

A person’s metal sensitivity or allergy may necessitate modified materials. In such cases, it has an impact on the dental implant cost.

• Tooth location

Some teeth are more difficult to replace than others, affecting the overall cost of your procedure. Due to the complexity of the surgical procedure to ensure it matches the jawline, the front teeth are usually the most expensive to replace.

• Preparatory considerations  

Before the placement of the dental implant, you might undergo preparatory treatments. If you have damaged or decayed teeth, an extraction might be an option. Additionally, some patients might experience significantly diminished soft tissue volume and bone density after tooth loss. In such instances, a tissue graft is necessary to prepare for the successful placement of dental implants. (3) 

A sinus lift, which is a surgical procedure in which the sinus is shifted up to make room for the bone graft, may be required in some cases. This will add to your cost.

You may wish to receive dental sedation during the placement of dental implants or any preparatory procedures such as dental extractions or tissue grafting to ensure your comfort. The type of sedation you select will influence the cost of the procedure. If you have dental insurance, you should be eligible for a discount on certain kinds of sedation.

• Oral health of the patient

When it comes to dental implants, having a history of oral infections can make the process more difficult. Implants can fail if the mouth has previously been infected or has had a history of severe trauma. The most common concerns are jaw infections, gum disease, abscesses, and root canals.

If these conditions are present, it’s not impossible to place an implant. Still, you should be aware that previous infections can contribute to implant failure, which can add to the overall cost and complexity of the procedure, especially if implant replacements are necessary. (4)

• Your dentist’s experience and level of expertise

Highly trained dentists with years of experience will command a higher fee. If the higher cost is too much for you, many dental clinics offer payment plans that distribute the cost over several months or years.

• Dental insurance and financing

Sadly, dental insurance will not typically cover the cost of dental implants. Many other procedures, such as tooth extraction or replacement, and dental sedation options, may be covered. (5)

Consult your dentist regarding the cost of every step of the dental implant procedure. You should schedule a time to discuss financing options to ensure that your implant is within your budget range.

Final thoughts

If you’re planning to get dental implants soon, you need to prepare for the overall dental implant cost. You’ll be in a better spot to prepare your budget if you understand the factors that influence the price, such as the number of implants, material type, and preparatory costs, to name a few. Regardless of the issue that necessitates the procedure, consider dental implants a worthwhile investment that can provide several benefits, including enjoying your meals and restoring your smile.

Final thoughts

If you’re planning to get dental implants soon, you need to prepare for the overall dental implant cost. You’ll be in a better spot to prepare your budget if you understand the factors that influence the price, such as the number of implants, material type, and preparatory costs, to name a few. Regardless of the issue that necessitates the procedure, consider dental implants a worthwhile investment that can provide several benefits, including enjoying your meals and restoring your smile.

References:

1. The cost of dental implants as compared to that of conventional strategies

2. Implant biomaterials: A comprehensive review

3. Soft tissue stability around dental implants after soft tissue grafting from the lateral palate or the tuberosity area – A randomized controlled clinical study

4. Periodontitis and dental implant loss

5. Dental insurance: A systematic review