How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Fountain Valley, CA
 As the popularity of dental implants surges, so too does the sheer range of myths surrounding the procedure. By far, the most common myth related to dental implants is that they are too expensive, especially when you compare them with more affordable alternatives like dental bridges and dentures.
Although there's no denying that dental implants can be rather pricey, they offer unparalleled benefits in terms of longevity, durability, and cosmetic improvements. The average cost of a single dental implant is $3,000 to $5,000, but it may go outside this range depending on the patient's specific circumstances and the dentist's experience.
For example, some patients require bone graft surgery to support the implant post. This will add to the overall cost of the dental implant procedure. This healing time for bone graft surgeries is usually in the three to six month range and will require multiple visits to the dentist, all of which can increase the price of the dental implant procedure. In addition to the above, there are a few miscellaneous, but important, costs that need to be taken into account.
3D Examination of the Mouth
It is not recommended to proceed with dental implant placement without having a thorough understanding of the mouth's anatomical structure. This would require a 3D exam comprising a series of x-rays and CT scans to reveal important information about the mouth's anatomy.
These images are used to learn about bone density, nerve placement, teeth, and root fractures. A software is used to generate a 3D image of the patient's mouth, which is then used to make informed decisions about dental implant placement. These tests usually cost anywhere from $300 to $900 per session. How much you may have to pay for these exams will depend on your insurance.
Placement of the Dental Implant Also Plays a Role in its Price
Depending on the practice, dental implants may cost more for a front tooth than the back molars and vice versa. This usually depends on the dentist's level of expertise. In general, front teeth are usually more expensive to replace because they are the most visible teeth and often require dentists to align the implant with the jaw. On the other hand, the molars at the far end may be more costly to replace because of the difficulty of accessing them.
Material for Dental Implants
The material used for dental implants must demonstrate good biocompatibility with the jawbone as well as mechanical properties to withstand the constant wear and tear due to chewing forces.
In most cases, pure titanium is preferred because it offers unparalleled biocompatibility and durability. However, dentists have been known to use titanium alloys with extremely high rates of success.
The price of titanium, much like gold, is known for fluctuating depending on availability and the efficiency of the supply chain. This, too, can have a bearing on the price of the dental implant procedure.
Number of Implants Needed
Some patients may only require a single dental implant, while others may need an entire row of new teeth. For obvious reasons, the more dental implants you need, the more the procedure will cost. This is because of the additional planning involved, including the skill, time, and attention to place multiple implants carefully.
Some patients opt for implant-supported dentures that use as few as two implants to as many as eight implants, depending on their specific needs.
Now that we've covered all the major factors affecting pricing, the following dental implant FAQ should help answer other pressing questions.
Dental Implant Procedure
All dental implants start with a consultation to see if the patient has enough jawbone density to support an implant post. During surgery, an incision is made to open the gum and expose the jawbone. The dentist drills into the jawbone, where a titanium post (or any other material) will be placed. The post has to be implanted deep into the one to serve as the tooth root.
Next, the abutment is added to the implant, which connects the implant with the artificial tooth (usually a crown). An artificial tooth is then attached to the abutment to complete the procedure. In some cases, the implant may be placed on the same day.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Over the years, the procedure for dental implants has been perfected by experts like Dr. Bijan Modjtahedi and , allowing them to last for over 40 years or more. This, of course, requires good dental care and follow-up appointments with a dentist. However, we should note that the crown may require replacement every 10 or 20 years. This is because the crown is exposed to constant chewing forces from day one.
Make sure to visit our dentist for routine maintenance of the implant and to monitor its health. To get the most out of your dental implant, you must brush, rinse, and floss your teeth daily to prevent gum disease. Remember, gum disease can easily lead to dental implant failure, and care must be taken to prevent it.
Is It Worth Getting Dental Implants?
Don't let the price of dental implants put you off from the procedure. Instead, try to think of dental implants as an investment that improves your quality of life and restores your confidence. Of course, you can explore other options, such as dentures and dental bridges, both of which are excellent for restoring oral functionality.
However, we recommend thinking of the long-term benefits (as well as drawbacks) of each procedure. Since each case is different, the exact price of dental implants will depend on the patient's specific situation. It depends on various factors, such as the location of the implant, procedure, and material used. Wondering if dental implants are the right solution for your missing or damaged teeth? Book an appointment with the experts at Bijan Family Dental Practice to explore all your options with our friendly staff. Call (714) 421-4494 to talk to our team directly and learn more about dental implants. |
