Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. On top of their incredible success rate of over 95%, they are stable, comfortable, and long-lasting. To achieve this, dental implants require a multi-step process that takes several months, and they have a higher upfront cost than other tooth replacement options, like dentures. Here are some of the factors that contribute to the cost of dental implants.
Type of Dental Implant
There are several ways that dental implants can be placed. A lot of the time, a dental implant is placed, then the incision is stitched over. After a few months, a second surgery takes place to install the abutment. This is typically done if bone grafting is needed to ensure the stability of the implant. In other scenarios, a longer implant is placed in a single surgery. Ultimately, it all depends on your unique case.
Number of Implants
The more dental implants that you need, the more your procedure will cost. This is one of the many reasons why people who are missing multiple teeth may opt for fewer dental implants or another tooth replacement option, like dentures or dental bridges. Discuss your options with your dentist so a plan can be customized to meet your needs.
Other Procedures
If you need to have preliminary procedures before you get dental implants, this will incur its own cost. For example, some patients may need a tooth extraction, bone grafting, a sinus lift, or another procedure to prepare their mouth to support dental implants. Having a strong, healthy jawbone and other surrounding structures is necessary to support healthy dental implants.
Location of Tooth
Generally speaking, it costs more to replace a front tooth because it requires additional care to match the exact angle of your jawbone. Depending on the location of your missing teeth, additional techniques may be needed to ensure that your implant is placed in just the right spot.
Oral Health
If you are dealing with dental issues, like periodontal disease, tooth decay, or another problem, these ailments need to be treated beforehand. Additional precautions may also need to be taken to cater to these issues. This can add to the overall cost of your treatment.
When you are considering the cost of your dental implant, remember to take all of the factors above into account. By investing in dental implants, you can enjoy a complete smile for many years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Daniel Weldon is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than a decade. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Since then, he has been continuing his education through the world-renowned Spear Education. He is also a former courtesy faculty in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Student Clinic at the College of Dentistry. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation at his office in Ocala, visit his website or call (352) 622-3236.