04 Nov Why Are Dental Implants So Expensive?
Replacing missing teeth with dental implants can restore your confidence and your smile. Dental implants are the most durable tooth replacement option that also looks and feels natural—but why do dental implants have to be so expensive? Let’s take a closer look at how much dental implants typically cost and the reasons why they’re so expensive.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
A single dental implant could cost anywhere between $1,500 to $2,000, depending on the materials used. However, there are often other necessary procedures, like bone grafts or tooth extractions. After adding up all of the associated costs, the total for a single implant could reach $4,800 or more.
Four Reasons Why Dental Implants Are So Expensive
1: High Quality Materials
Dental implants are made up of three parts: an implant post, an abutment, and a crown. The implant post is a metal screw that is implanted into your jaw and the abutment is a piece of metal that attaches to the screw to hold the crown in place.
Both the implant post and abutment are typically made of titanium, a highly durable biocompatible material that bonds with the jaw bone. The crown is a false tooth that is usually made up of ceramic or porcelain. These high-quality materials are expensive, so dental implants have a higher cost than other dental restorations.
2: Specialized Nature of Procedure
In order to be qualified to place dental implants, dentists must complete expensive, specialized, post-graduate training. In addition, the dentist must invest in costly equipment and supplies to be able to offer implant services in their office. When you pay for dental implants, you’re not just paying for the materials. You also pay for your surgeon’s time, commitment, and experience.
3: Bone Grafting
You must have a strong jaw in order to qualify for dental implants. However, if you have had missing teeth for years, bone loss or bone resorption can occur. You may need bone grafting to restore the strength of your jaw so it can support your implants.
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting healthy bone tissue to rebuild damaged bones. This treatment takes extra time and adds to the overall cost of getting implants.
4. Tooth Extractions
Dental implants aren’t just a solution for teeth that are already missing. Sometimes teeth that are extremely unhealthy due to tooth decay or gum disease may be too far gone to save. The tooth will need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant. The cost of a tooth extraction procedure will contribute to a higher overall cost.
Are Dental Implants Covered by Insurance?
Some dental insurance providers may cover part of the cost of other steps in the procedure, such as x-rays, extractions, and bone grafting. But that’s only if you haven’t already reached your annual maximum.
What Are My Other Options for Tooth Replacement?
Dental Implants are a long-term investment. They are durable, long-lasting, and protect your jawbone from bone loss. They also look and feel the most natural. However, they are not your only option.
Other, less expensive tooth replacement options include removable partial dentures, removable full dentures, or a fixed bridge. Removable dentures are the most affordable option, but dental bridges are still less expensive than implants.
Tooth Replacement Services in Sun Lakes, Arizona
If you have missing or severely damaged teeth, Dr. Saba and Associates can help you find a tooth replacement solution that fits your budget. We provide affordable options like removable dentures and fixed bridges. We can also refer you to an experienced oral surgeon for dental implants. Give us a call at 480-895-2111 today to schedule an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/10/2022). Photo by Peter Kasprzyk on Unsplash