The dental implant is undoubtedly an excellent way to replace broken or missing teeth. However, a lot of people avoid this treatment because they consider it costly.
That is why patients opt for more temporary and cheaper alternatives, leading to more hassles and a waste of money. So, if you are also thinking the same, you are making a mistake.
Instead of looking for cheaper treatments, know about the dental implant pricing in detail. The information will help you estimate the amount of money required for this treatment.
The cost of dental implants is not just an expense. Instead, it is a great investment in dental health for the long-term.
Read on to know how much dental implants cost in 2024.
How much do dental implants typically cost?
Getting a single dental implant with a porcelain crown typically costs around $4,800, but it can vary from $3,500 to $6,700. This covers both the implant itself and the surgery to put it in place.
If you’re considering getting implants for your whole mouth, it usually ranges from $43,000 to $515,000.
There’s a newer option for implants made entirely of a ceramic material called zirconia. These tend to be a bit pricier than the traditional titanium implants, by a few hundred dollars.
Why are implants so expensive?
The higher cost of dental implants reflects the materials used and the complexity of the placement process, which can take several months from start to finish.
The process typically begins with a dental exam and consultation, followed by the administration of local anesthesia or IV sedation to ensure you’re comfortable during the procedure.
The dentist will then insert a screw-shaped implant body into the jawbone where the missing tooth was located. This implant, known as an endosteal implant, is designed to fuse with the jawbone during the healing process.
If your jawbone is not strong enough, your dentist may recommend a subperiosteal implant, which is placed under the gum but above the jawbone.
Several weeks or months later, after the implant site has healed, you’ll return for the next step. The dentist will attach an abutment to the implant body, which serves as a foundation for the artificial tooth.
A custom-made crown, typically made of ceramic or porcelain to match your existing teeth, will be created by a dental lab.
Finally, once the crown is ready, you’ll return to the dentist’s office to have it securely attached to the abutment using a screw or dental cement.
Additional costs of dental implants
In addition to the cost of the implant and its placement surgery, there are many factors affecting implant costs. They are as follows:
#1. Dental exams and X-rays
Expect to pay around $200 to $450 if you don’t have insurance for these preliminary evaluations.
#2. Bone grafting
This procedure, which averages about $600, may be necessary to prepare the implant site but will also prolong the process until the graft area has healed.
#3. Sinus lift
Increasing bone thickness in the upper jaw through this procedure could add $1,500 to $2,500 to your overall bill.
#4. Anesthesia
Sedation costs typically range from $50 to $200, while general anesthesia, administered by an anesthesiologist, may run into several hundred dollars per hour.
#5. Specialist care:
Oral-maxillofacial surgeons often charge more than general dentists, particularly for complex procedures like implants.
Are dental implants worth it?
While the expense of dental implants may seem high, they offer significant benefits. Living with missing teeth can make chewing challenging and may lead to the shifting of adjacent teeth, causing bite misalignment.
For those with dentures or bridges, replacing them with implants can improve chewing and speech, and implants generally provide greater durability than traditional dentures.
However, implants may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with conditions that hinder healing such as diabetes, leukemia, or low estrogen levels.
Moreover, studies claim smokers are at a higher risk of implant failure. Issues like broken screws or loose abutments can occur but are usually fixable. However, dental implants can occasionally fail.
Short-term failures happen when the bone fails to heal around the implant body, often requiring a bone graft and a second attempt at implantation.
Long-term failure can result from persistent gum and bone infections, characterized by discomfort and bleeding. In such cases, removal of the dental implant could be necessary.
Pros of dental implants
Here are some benefits of dental implant:
- Restores the appearance and function of missing teeth
- Maintains the health of the jawbone and gums
- Prevents neighboring teeth from shifting
Cons of dental implants
Here are some drawbacks of dental implant:
- Risks damaging neighboring teeth, gums, sinuses, jawbone, or nerves during the implantation process
- May fail due to infection of adjacent bones or gums
- Poses a risk of misalignment or color discrepancy
Questions for the dentist
When you consult with your dentist, you should ask the following question to know how much dental implants cost.
- How many implant procedures have you completed, and what is your success rate?
- What steps are involved in my tooth implant procedure, and what are the associated costs?
- Are there any unforeseen procedures or expenses that could arise?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of the approach you recommend?
- What can I anticipate in terms of time off work and recovery?
- What expenses will I need to cover personally after the procedure?
Is there any insurance coverage for implants?
There’s a chance that dental insurance might assist with certain implant costs, potentially reducing the overall expense by covering particular procedures.
Insurers are more inclined to cover implants essential for preserving or restoring dental health, rather than those sought for cosmetic purposes, which are typically not covered. You must keep this in mind when budgeting for dental implants.
How long do the benefits of dental implants last?
Research indicates that 90% to 95% of implants can remain functional for as long as 20 years.
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, along with routine checkups, can contribute to the longevity of implants over several decades.
What are some alternatives to a dental implant?
If you’re looking to bypass the cost or lengthy process of getting implants, there are alternative options available:
- Dental bridges can address gaps spanning up to two adjacent teeth, typically costing around $2,500 per tooth.
- Partial dentures come at varying prices, ranging from $800 to $3,100, depending on factors such as the type, size, and materials used in the device.
However, it’s worth noting that these more affordable alternatives may require replacement every 15 years or so.
Get Dental Implants at G4 by Golpa: Book an Appointment Now!
Estimating the cost of the dental implant treatment can be a stressful task for first-timers.
However, you can make it easier if you focus on the essential factors that are mentioned above.
Are you ready to explore costs, benefits, and alternatives?
Schedule your consultation with G4 by Golpa for expert advice on dental implants today. We have excellent facilities in Las Vegas, Dallas, and Tysons where you can get the complete dental solutions.
