How Much For a Tooth Implant? Recognising Influencing Factors

Missing teeth should never be a source of insecurity or discomfort. Thankfully, dental implants provide an accessible solution to restore your smile and reduce the inconveniences caused by missing teeth. It’s a relatively straightforward process that you can trust! But how much do dental implants cost? Let’s find out.

 

Definition of Tooth Implant

A dental implant is an ideal way to replace missing or damaged teeth. It is a permanent tooth replacement solution that works much like a natural tooth– filling the gap in your smile and allowing you to enjoy all of your favourite foods with no worry! Unlike other dental treatments, tooth implants are easy to manage and maintain long-term. Unlike bridges, there’s no need to modify healthy teeth or worry about them moving around while you’re eating or speaking. Tooth implants last for decades and provide a vastly superior aesthetic outcome compared to traditional dentures. You can transform your oral health and confidence today with a single-tooth implant!

 

Types of Dental Implants 

 

Endosteal Implants 

These dental implants are the most common type of implant used today. They are inserted directly into the jawbone in order to replace one or more missing teeth.

Once inserted, they become fused with the bone during a process known as osseointegration. This results in a strong and secure foundation for the prosthetic tooth/teeth that will be placed on top of it. Endosteal implants require multiple surgical procedures and typically take several months to heal before being ready for use. 

 

Subperiosteal Implants 

These implants consist of metal frames that rest on top of the jawbone just beneath the gum line. The frames have posts that protrude through the gums, providing an anchor for prosthetic teeth or bridges. Subperiosteal implants may be recommended if you do not have sufficient bone mass for traditional endosteal implants or if you prefer a less invasive procedure than traditional implant surgery requires. 

 

Mini Implants 

Compared to traditional endosteal or subperiosteal implants, mini implants are much smaller yet offer a reliable foundation for artificial teeth. When there is not enough bone or tissue in the space of a traditional dental implant, mini implants provide an alternative treatment solution. These smaller-size implants do just as good a job and allow for successful placement even when circumstances are challenging. Mini implants are a convenient option when compared to traditional implant procedures, as they don’t require the same level of surgery as endosteal and subperiosteal treatments. Additionally, mini implants necessitate shorter healing times due to their minimally invasive nature.

 

Dental Implant Procedure 

 

Preparation Appointment

During the first appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth to assess if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants and determine whether or not any additional treatments, such as bone grafting or sinus lift, are required. If you are a suitable candidate, then they will take X-rays to check your jawbone density and make sure it is strong enough to support an implant. 

If everything looks good on the X-ray, then they will proceed with making an opening in the gums so that they can place the titanium post into the jawbone. Your dentist may also provide you with some pre-surgery instructions, such as avoiding smoking and taking certain medications prior to surgery. 

 

Placement Appointment 

The next step is for your dentist to place the titanium post into your jawbone during a second appointment. This part of the procedure typically takes about two hours, depending on how many posts need to be inserted. Once the post has been placed in the jawbone, it needs time to heal and integrate with surrounding bone tissue before being used as an anchor for replacement teeth. This process can take between three months or up to one year, depending on how quickly you heal and how complex the case is.  

Once healing is complete, your dentist will attach abutment posts onto each of your implants, which will act as anchors for replacement teeth, such as crowns or bridges. Once these have been attached, impressions of your mouth will be taken in order for custom prosthetics to be made for each individual tooth that needs replacing. Once these have been made, they can be attached to each implant, giving you back the full function of all missing teeth! 

 

Factors Influencing the Cost of Dental Implants 

 

 

1. Type of Implant

The type of implant used is a major factor in determining the total cost of treatment. There are different kinds available, and each has different price points depending on their complexity and durability. For example, titanium implants tend to be more expensive than ceramic ones because they last longer and are more durable. 

 

2. Number of Implants

The number of implants needed will also affect the final cost as each additional implant adds to the total amount due. A single implant cost can start from $2,500, but if more than one is needed, then expect to pay a higher amount for dental implant treatment overall. 

 

3. Experience Level

The experience level of your dentist or oral surgeon is another big factor that affects pricing; those who have been practising longer typically charge higher rates than new practitioners simply because they have more expertise and experience with performing such treatments successfully and safely over time. 

 

4. Ancillary Procedures

Finally, there may be additional procedures necessary prior to getting an implant that could increase your final bill; these can range from bone grafting (if necessary) to extracting an existing tooth before placing an implant on top of it, which adds even more complexity (and expense) to the entire process overall!  

 

Cost of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great dental solution for replacing damaged or missing one or multiple teeth, but the dental implant cost can be prohibitive. Luckily, by doing your homework and being prepared, you can make dental implant costs more manageable. It’s important to research the different dental implant surgery options available and speak with your dentist to find out the appropriate course of action for your situation. Shopping around to compare prices between dental professionals and selecting a plan that fits your individual needs and budget is also recommended. Taking these steps can help to reduce dental implant costs significantly so you can get the dental treatment you need without breaking the bank.

 

Is Insurance Coverage Available for Dental Implants Expenses?

Understanding the dental implant cost is one of the vital aspects to consider when it comes to replacing a missing tooth or teeth.

Fortunately, insurance can play an important role in terms of defraying some of those costs, if not all.

Generally, insurance might partially cover the single dental implant, including its hardware as well as related services, but this depends on many factors, including individual policy limits and coverage.

In addition, there may be other funding options that provide financial assistance. Therefore, it is important to consult your insurance provider prior to making any decisions regarding mouth dental implant cost.

 

Benefits of Tooth Implants 

 

1. Improved Appearance

One of the most obvious benefits of tooth implants is that they can improve the appearance of your smile. If you’re self-conscious about missing teeth, implants can give you back your confidence. 

 

2. Better Oral Health

Unlike dentures, which can slip and rub against your gums, causing irritation, tooth implants are permanently fixed in place. This means that they won’t rub against your gums or cause any irritation. 

 

3. Improved Speech

Another common issue with missing teeth is that they can impact your speech. When you have gaps in your teeth, it can cause you to mumble or slur your words. With implants, you won’t have to worry about this anymore. 

 

4. Easier Eating

Missing teeth can also make eating difficult and even painful. Since implants are securely in place, you won’t have to worry about your teeth slipping or falling out when you’re trying to enjoy a meal. 

 

5. Durability

Implants are designed to last many years with proper care. With dentures, on the other hand, you may need to have them replaced every 5-7 years due to wear and tear. 

 

6. Increased Comfort

Implants feel just like your natural teeth, so you won’t even know they’re there once they’ve healed and fused with your jawbone. 

 

7. Improved Self-Esteem

Missing teeth or lost teeth can take a toll on your self-esteem and confidence levels. With implants, you can finally start smiling again without feeling self-conscious about your appearance. 

 

8. Enhanced Quality of Life

When you have missing teeth, it can make everyday activities like talking and eating more difficult and even painful at times. Thanks to dental implants, you won’t have to worry about this anymore and can go back to enjoying life to the fullest. 

 

9. Convenience

Dental implants are a convenient option because they don’t require any special care or maintenance beyond what you would do for your natural teeth. 

 

10. Safer Than Other Options

Dental implants are also a safer option than other common alternatives like bridges and dentures. 

 

Am I A Good Candidate For A Dental Implant?

Whether you’re considering getting a single tooth replaced or an entire set of new teeth, it’s important to understand the factors that go into determining whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants. 

 

Health Issues 

Your overall health is one of the most important factors in determining whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants. Those who suffer from certain diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, may be more likely to experience implant failure. Additionally, those who smoke are at an increased risk of implant failure. Your dentist will assess your overall health before recommending dental implants as an option. 

 

Bone Structure 

The success of your dental implant can depend on the amount and quality of bone that is available in your jawbone. If you don’t have enough bone structure in your jawbone, you may need to have a bone graft performed first before undergoing implant surgery. The bone graft will restore the healthy structure needed for implant success. 

 

Oral Health 

Your oral health is also a factor when it comes to determining whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants. In order for implants to be successful, you must have healthy gums and adequate bone in your jawbone to support the implant post(s). If there are signs of gum disease present, such as receding gums or chronic inflammation, treatment may need to be done before moving forward with an implant procedure. 

The most reliable way to determine if you are a good candidate for teeth implants is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Your dentist will evaluate your current oral health and discuss any potential issues that might arise during the process of getting implants placed into your mouth (such as gum disease). After evaluating all factors, they can then recommend the best course of action based on your individual needs and goals. 

 

Experience Quality Dental Implants at an Affordable Price with Bright Dental Group

Bright Dental Group understands the importance of having a full set of teeth and offers dental implant surgery to restore and improve patients’ smiles. We provide comprehensive care with personalised attention, so you can be sure that all your needs are taken care of in one place. Our experienced and skilled dental team will work with you to determine whether or not dental implants are the best option for you and discuss various financing options to make them more affordable. Get in touch with us today at (02) 4708 9691 to schedule your consultation. We look forward to helping you get back your bright smile! 

 

 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. 

 

 

 

References

Dental Health and Dentures
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-health-dentures

Dental implant surgery
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622