The Cost of Dental Implants

Choosing a Dentist

When placed correctly by an experienced specialist, dental implants have a 95 percent success rate. The nature of this surgery requires careful planning and an in-depth understanding of procedure. For the best possible outcome, you should always choose a dentist with a reputation for delivering excellent dental implant results. 

In general, dentists and surgeons with more experience will charge more for treatment. However, keep in mind that incorrect placement of implants can mean significant revision and replacement costs in the future. Choosing a dentist with a track record of success is an investment in the longevity of your implant-supported restoration. 

Preparatory Procedures

During the planning stage of your dental implants treatment, your doctor may identify oral health concerns that could affect the success of your implants. If this is the case, your doctor will likely recommend preparatory procedures before implant placement. These additional treatments will add to the overall cost of dental implants. However, they can significantly reduce the likelihood of implant failure. The most common preparatory procedures are bone grafts and sinus lifts.

Bone Grafts

If x-rays reveal you do not have sufficient jawbone tissue to support a dental implant, your dentist may recommend a bone grafting procedure. Bone grafts use harvested tissue to augment the jaw and encourage new tissue growth for a stronger implant base. Bone grafting surgery can cost between $600 and $2,600, depending on the surgeon and the type of graft you require. 

Sinus Lifts

Another common procedure is a sinus lift, which may be necessary if the sinus membrane rests too close to the implant placement location. This procedure involves raising the sinus floor and supplementing the bone tissue at the top of the jaw. This treatment typically costs between $440 and $2,600. 

The Number of Implants Necessary

The cost of a single traditional implant generally ranges from $260 to $440. This price does not include surgery or any other associated expenses. This cost will depend on the brand your dentist uses as well as the size. For example, mini dental implants tend to cost less than traditional implant posts. However, they do not provide the same level of support. 

The average cost of placing a single dental implant ranges from $1,600 to $2,200, not including the cost of a restoration. 

One implant can support a single dental crown. If you need a larger restoration, such as a bridge or denture, you will likely require more implant posts. The number of implants necessary will raise the overall cost of your treatment. 

There are certain implant placement techniques that use less implants to support large restorations. For instance, the All-on-4® technique uses four dental implants to support a full denture, rather than the typical six to eight posts. Fewer implants can lower your expenses.

Sedation

The level of sedation you need will affect the cost of your procedure as well. Some patients only receive local anesthesia during implant placement surgery. Depending on the complexity of your procedure, you may need a deeper level of sedation, such as oral conscious, nitrous oxide, or intravenous (IV) sedation. Each type of sedation offers unique benefits, and the best form for you will depend on your comfort level as well as your dentist’s preferences. 

Restoring Your Implant

An implant-supported restoration has three parts: the implant posts, the abutment, and the restoration. Abutments are small connectors that attach your restoration to the implant posts. Titanium abutments cost about $180. If you choose a white zirconia abutment for a more natural appearance, you are looking at a cost around $350. 

The size and material of your final crown, bridge, or denture will also affect the final cost of your implant treatment. A single dental crown can range in cost from $1,400 to $2,200, depending on the material you choose. Standard implant-supported dentures generally cost between $1,800 and $3,500 per arch. Advanced materials such as zirconia or IPS e.max® are some of the most durable and attractive results, but they raise the final price. There are also budget options available.

Financing Your Dental Implants

In general, treatment with dental implants is not fully covered by dental insurance plans. They may cover a percentage of the procedure. However, you should expect to pay for part or all of dental implant treatment out-of-pocket. Many dentists offer their own financing plans or partner with third-party financing companies to make treatment more accessible. 

Why Invest in Dental Implants?

For some patients, the cost of restoring their smile can seem intimidating. However, dental implants offer a superior level of stability compared to traditional restorations and are the only tooth replacement solution that protects the health of your jawbone. By choosing dental implants, you are investing in the health of your smile.