Tooth loss affects a high percentage of the population and is most common in older patients. While you may think you can function without teeth, the truth is, missing teeth can cause a variety of oral and overall health issues. However, there are options for tooth replacement and how much do dental implants cost?
Dental implants look, feel, and function more like natural teeth. Due to this, implants are one of the most expensive options at Parkway Dental Care. However, while the upfront investment is high, the benefits make it worth it.
In this article, we'll explain more about dental implants and the costs associated with this dental procedure.
The average cost of single-tooth dental implants is around $5,000. Depending on the factors mentioned below, the cost may be as low as $3,500 or as high as $6,700. A full set may cost around $56,000. These costs are only for the implant device and the surgical placement.
Several factors are involved in determining the final out-of-pocket cost for dental implants:
There are two types of implants to choose from: traditional and mini. Traditional implants are made up of three pieces and mini implants are made up of two. Since mini implants are smaller and require less time for placement, this type of implant is typically on the lower end of the scale.
The standard material for dental implant screws is titanium. While titanium is biocompatible, some of the other metals used in the implant screw are not. This means that some people will experience an allergic reaction which will lead to implant failure. In this case, the patient needs an implant made with zirconia.
Dental crowns are typically made of porcelain because it looks more like natural teeth, but you can save money by choosing a composite resin crown. However, it is important to note that while you do save money upfront, you'll have to replace a composite resin crown sooner than you would a porcelain one.
The location of the implant has an impact on the cost. A tooth that is easy to access will cost less than one that is near the back of the jaw and requires more work.
The cost of living in the area where the dental clinic is located impacts the cost of dental treatments. Typically, a clinic located in a rural area charges less than one in the middle of a busy downtown area.
Dental implants require specialized training in implantology. Since this is a specialization, you can expect to pay more than with other treatments. However, a dentist that is just starting out often charges less than one that has been in practice for some time. That being said, it's important to understand that an implant is more likely to fail if the dentist isn't familiar with the procedure.
Many dental insurance plans will deny claims for dental implants because this treatment is classified as a cosmetic procedure. There are other, less expensive options for tooth replacement. However, some of them are beginning to cover a portion of treatment because implants are a more natural replacement than other methods. Our office staff will work with your provider to determine coverage. If you do not have insurance or your insurance does not cover the procedure, we offer financing options.
In some cases, insurance may cover some or all of the costs associated with certain other related treatments such as extractions, bone grafting, sinus lifting, and gum disease treatment.
In most cases, the dentist will use imaging such as x-rays and CT scans to ensure accurate placement of the implants. These are often not included as part of the base cost of dental implants.
If you have teeth that are extremely decayed, you may require extractions. While these may need to be done to allow the implants to be placed, it is an entirely different procedure and will be an extra charge.
Finally, patients who have been missing teeth for some time may have some jawbone loss. Dental implants require adequate jawbone density to be stable. If this is the case, bone grafting may be necessary. In some cases, there might not be much room between the sinus cavity and the upper jawbone. In this case, sinus lifting may be required.
Dental implants are often referred to as the "gold standard" of tooth replacement because they look, feel, and function more like natural teeth than other options. Therefore, this tooth replacement solution is often the most expensive. However, most would agree that implants are well worth the investment due to the following benefits:
If you are in or near Kissimmee, Florida and you need dental treatment, including dental implants, look no further than Parkway Dental Care. We have the experience and expertise to handle a variety of dental needs from pediatric to geriatric patients. We strive to create a pleasant experience for all patients, regardless of their reason for visiting the office.
Parkway Dental Care is located on Osceola Parkway in Kissimmee. Our office hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Mondays and Fridays, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Tuesdays through Thursdays, and 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays. We look forward to helping you replace your missing teeth, as well as addressing any other dental issues you may have.
If you have any questions or concerns about any of our dental procedures, including dental implants, feel free to bring them up at any time. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we get about implants:
Dental implant placement requires fairly invasive surgery. Therefore, your body needs time to heal. While dairy is good for healing because it contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, it's best to avoid it for at least a few days after surgery.
This is because dairy has been shown to cause inflammation in soft oral tissues, which can cause excessive swelling and/or bleeding in the surgical site. This may lead to infection and ultimately, implant failure.
In addition, dairy may also trigger nausea and vomiting, especially in patients who are lactose intolerant. This introduces stomach acid into the mouth and the surgical site, which can cause infection and failure.
Prior to the surgery, you will be given local anesthesia, and possibly general anesthesia if you have dental anxiety. This means that you should not feel anything during the procedure other than some minor pressure.
There is an adjustment period in which you will need to get used to having the implants in your mouth, especially if you've been without teeth or been wearing dentures for some time.
If you experience significant pain, swelling, and/or bleeding, its important to contact the dentist right away.
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. However, you may need to replace the crown or other artificial teeth in about 15 to 20 years. If you practice proper care and maintenance, you may be able to make the prosthesis last a lifetime.
Dental implants are made up of three pieces: implant screw, abutment, and crown. The screw is inserted into the jawbone, which will fuse together through the process of osseointegration. This creates a stable base, fully restoring your ability to eat, chew, and speak.
The entire process takes several months to a year or more, depending on how quickly you heal. The surgery itself should only take about an hour or so, depending on how many implants you are getting.