What exactly are dental Implants? What do they do?
Dental implants replace your teeth more permanently while dentures are temporary fixes which you put on and take off every day. Dentists recommend the use of dental implants when you need to replace one or two teeth instead of a full set for your entire mouth.
Generally made of titanium, a dental implant is rooted right into the jaw – thus substituting for the root of the missing tooth. It is used to support one or more false teeth Thus, ensuring a strong, sturdy and decay-proof foundation for missing teeth or crowns. Dentures or bridges that are mounted on dental implants won’t move or shift in your mouth, offering a more long-lasting option for your missing teeth. Giving you a more secure feeling while eating and speaking. Plus, since dental implants do not decay or fall out (like natural teeth), they provide a safe, constant foundation for artificial teeth.
How much do dental implants cost in the US?
The general impression is that dental implants will set you back a fair bit as far as your bank balance is concerned. Is that true? Let’s check out the average costs of opting for dental implants.
Average cost for a single tooth implant
- A single-tooth dental implant could cost between $1,000 and $3,000
- Abutment and crown can add between $500 and $3,000
- Total dental implant cost per tooth can range between $1,500 and $6,000
Average cost of multiple dental implants
This is an option for people who need more than one implant.
Multiple teeth implants may cost between $3,000 and $30,000 – sometimes more. Replacing two to four teeth could cost between $6,000 and $10,000.
- The number of implants depends on the number of teeth that need replacing
- The location of the missing teeth is also important
- Individual implants for each tooth may be required if the target teeth are next to each other
In short, the total costs of your multiple dental implant could be higher depending on your specific circumstances and requirements.
Cost of full mouth dental implants
Many people choose to go for implant-supported dentures, known as full mouth dental implants.
- A full set of implant-supported dentures can cost between $7,000 and $90,000 – with the total average cost adding up to $34,000
- Putting in a single plate (top or bottom) of these dentures usually costs between $3,500 and $30,000
Full mouth dental implants stay in place without any adhesives. But, you may need to have more teeth removed before all the necessary implants can be put in. This can raise the costs of the procedure – significantly.
Please remember, this is the average price without any dental implant insurance or dental plan. While the cost does include dental implant surgery, and other costs such as the initial consultation, the total cost of your dental implant could be higher depending on your specific circumstances and requirements. If you need implants for multiple teeth, the costs will rise even higher.
Why do dental implants cost so much?
For the following reasons:
- You may need to pay a dentist and a surgeon
- You may need to make more than one visit to complete each step of the procedure
- More visits to more professionals mean higher costs
There’s more to a dental implant than putting an artificial tooth, or teeth, into your mouth. Let’s consider a few of the associated costs that can appear on your dental bill.
X-Ray/CT Scan
The dentist will need to take an X-ray or CT scan of your mouth, to find the best location for the implant. The cost of these diagnostic tests can add up. X-Rays and CT scans can cost anywhere between $25 and $200.
Bone Graft
It’s possible you may need a bone graft. This is necessary if you don’t have enough bone in your jaw to support the implant. The cost will vary depending on where the bone is taken from and how much bone is required. The cost of a self-sourced bone graft can fall between $2,000 and $3,000, because the procedure involves two surgeries and thus and requires hospitalization. If you can’t supply the bone, the surgeon can source the bone from:
- A cadaver
- A cow
- From a lab which can create synthetic bone
The average price for any one of these options can ranges from $250 to $1,100.
Teeth Extraction
If any of your teeth have to be removed that will also mean more expenses. The overall cost of the extraction will vary depending on the length of the visit and the difficulty of removing the tooth. Tooth extraction costs could be as follows:
- Non-surgical, gum-erupted tooth removal – $75 to $300
- Surgical extraction with anesthesia 150 to $650
- Soft-tissue removals and complicated surgery $185 to $600
- Wisdom tooth removal $75 to $200
Professional Fees
A prosthodontist is the best kind of dental professional to go to, someone who’s an expert in restoring and replacing teeth. His/her services can cost anywhere from $500 (for a surgeon still in dental school) up to $2,000 for an experienced dental surgeon. Since you will also need an anesthesiologist, fees for this professional could range from $500 to $800 per hour.
Cost of Materials
The main components of a typical dental implant are:
- The actual implant (zirconia or titanium) – can cost between $1,600 and $2,000
- The abutment – can cost between $275 and $450
- The crown – can cost between $1,000 and $3,000
When all is said and done, it’s very true that dental implants can make a hole in your bank balance. But, if you truly need an implant, then it’s for more than just looks – it can give you back the lifestyle that you once had, and would like to have again.