Dental implants are an effective, long-term solution for missing teeth. Implants can improve your smile’s appearance and function, and they’re good for your overall oral health.
If you’re considering dental implants, you probably have one big question: How much is implants going to cost? This is a common concern, and it’s understandable.
This article will give you a comprehensive overview of dental implant costs. We’ll break down the factors that influence the price, discuss insurance coverage, and explore financing options so you can make an informed decision.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in your jawbone. They’re a permanent solution for replacing a single tooth, several teeth, or even a full set of teeth.
Implants offer a number of advantages over other tooth-replacement options, including longevity, improved appearance and chewing function, and better overall oral health.
There are several types of dental implants, including:
- Endosteal implants
- Subperiosteal implants
- Immediate-load implants
- All-on-4 implants
- 3-on-6 implants
- Zygomatic implants
Most dental implants are made of titanium alloy, which is strong, lightweight, non-toxic, and compatible with human tissue. In other words, your body won’t reject it.
How much do dental implants cost?
If you’re missing teeth, you may have wondered about the cost of dental implants. Here’s what you should know.
Average cost range
Dental implants can range from $1,500 to $6,000 per tooth, or $1,646 to $4,157 for a single tooth dental implant, plus the cost of the crown.
That’s a wide range, and the final cost depends on a number of things, including the type and number of implants you need, your insurance coverage, and whether your dentist is in your insurance network.
Factors that influence cost
Many factors can affect the cost of dental implants, including:
- Materials
- Location of the implant
- Whether you need any additional procedures
- Your dentist’s experience
- Geographic location
- Insurance coverage
- Payment options
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of the dental crown, which can range from about $500 to over $3,000.
Cost breakdown
The price of a dental implant typically includes the surgical placement of the implant, the supporting structures, and the crown. But you may also incur additional costs for things like tooth extraction, bone grafting, sinus lifts, and office fees.
What factors affect dental implant costs?
Dental implant costs are more complex than the price tag on a single piece of hardware. Here are some of the factors that can affect what you’ll pay:
Materials
Implants can be made from a variety of materials, including titanium, zirconia, and ceramic. Depending on the type of implant you choose, the price will vary.
Location
Costs vary from state to state, and even district to district. You can expect to pay more for a dental implant in an urban area.
Also, the location of the missing tooth affects the price. An implant for a front tooth may cost more than one for a molar.
Additional procedures
You may need additional procedures before you can get an implant. For example, if you’ve experienced bone loss, you might need a bone graft to strengthen the area to support the implant. A sinus lift may be needed if the implant is in your upper jaw. You may also need to have a tooth extracted, which comes with its own charge.
Dentist experience
A dentist with more experience and training may charge more for a dental implant. It’s important to choose a reputable dentist to ensure the procedure is done correctly, so be sure to ask about the dentist’s training and experience.
Will my dental insurance cover implants?
When it comes to dental implants, insurance coverage can be a mixed bag.
Dental insurance policies don’t always cover the cost of dental implants, and the amount of coverage can vary a lot.
Keep in mind that deductibles and waiting periods may apply, so you could be paying out of pocket for a while.
To get a handle on how much your insurance plan will cover, it’s important to get a pre-treatment estimate. This can help you understand your potential out-of-pocket expenses.
It’s always a good idea to call your dental insurance provider to get all the details.
As for Medicare and Medicaid, these plans usually don’t cover dental implants, although some Medicare Advantage plans may make exceptions.
Financing options for dental implants
Because implants are a big investment, you may want to explore options for financing your procedure.
CareCredit
CareCredit is a credit card specifically for healthcare expenses. Depending on your credit history, you may qualify for a CareCredit card with a promotional period with no interest. If you pay off the balance before the promotional period ends, you won’t be charged any interest.
HSAs, HRAs, and FSAs
You may be able to use funds from your health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA), or flexible spending account (FSA) to pay for dental implants. Eligibility and coverage can vary, so check with your plan administrator.
Payment plans and discounts
Some dental offices offer payment plans that allow you to pay for your implants over time. You may also be able to get a discount for paying upfront or for having multiple implants placed.
Dental implant alternatives
If the cost of dental implants is holding you back, there are other options to explore.
Bridges
A dental bridge fills a gap in your teeth using a false tooth anchored to the adjacent teeth. Bridges are typically less expensive than implants, but they may require more maintenance over time.
Dentures
Dentures are removable appliances that can replace multiple missing teeth. While dentures are generally the least expensive option, they may not offer the same level of stability or comfort as implants.
Considerations
Alternatives like bridges and dentures are usually less expensive than implants, but they involve different procedures and recovery times. Talk with your dentist about which option is best for you.
The Bottom Line
If you’re considering dental implants, it’s essential to talk with a dentist about your options and choose a reputable provider.
As you plan your treatment, remember that the overall cost of dental implants depends on several factors, including the materials used, the location of the implant, whether you need any preliminary procedures, and how much your insurance will cover.
Do some research to compare prices, and don’t hesitate to ask about financing options that can make monthly payments more manageable. With a little planning, you can regain your smile without breaking the bank.