Introduction to Dental Implants
Basically, a dental implant is a dental procedure where an extracted tooth is replaced by an artificial or prosthetic tooth. The artificial tooth has a root shaped like a screw which is then surgically inserted into the gums and jawbone. It acts and functions the same as a real tooth would, and it will fuse to the bone within a few months in order to create a firm foundation. This natural process of fusion is called osseointegration, “osseo” for bone and “integration” for fusion. Most of the prosthetic tooth roots used for dental implants are made of titanium which allows them to fuse with the jawbone without being recognized as a foreign object in the body. Next an implant crown, known as the superficial part of the tooth, will be placed to fill the empty space between the remaining teeth. The dental implants cost tends to be on the high side of other dental procedures, often with only partial dental insurance coverage. TGUC Financial has financing options for those with no dental insurance and bad credit scores.
Implants are commonly used and recommended for people who had an accident which resulted in the loss of one or more of their permanent teeth. Some people have medical conditions and diseases that cause them to lose teeth, while there are others that get implants for cosmetic purposes.
Dental Implants are one of the most expensive dental procedures because it is a type of dental surgery that goes through a series of steps. It is also one of the most successful dental procedures when it comes to restoring missing teeth with the success rate of 98%.
How Much is the Average Cost of Dental Implants?
Dental implants, also known as tooth implants, cost $3,000 to $4,500 per tooth including the implant, abutment, and crown. There is an additional cost of $200 to $3,200 for bone grafting, which is required for most cases. It is expensive but, unlike most dental procedures, dental implants last longer and don’t need to be replaced at least for a few years.
According to the Dental Implant Cost Guide, the average cost of dental implants is about $4,250 including both the abutment and jaw implant. But the cost still varies depending on which dentist you go to and can range anywhere between $3,000 and $6,000.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the overall cost of a dental implant’s procedure. The factors include:
- The dentist’s proficiency and expertise – dentists that have more experience usually charge more, but going to one reduces the chances of any risks during the surgery.
- Materials used and their quality – Artificial tooth roots are made from either titanium or zirconium. These materials help in the fusion of the implant with the bone, so both the choice and quality of materials that will be used influences the price.
- Preparation procedures involved – Some preparation procedures include tooth extractions or even bone grafting. Both are crucial, and in some cases, necessary before placing an implant. It depends on the overall health of your teeth as well as your jawbones. Note that more procedures needed also means higher cost.
- How many implants the patient needs – One or two implants lessens the cost per tooth. In many cases, dentists can use dental bridges or even mount dentures on implants which influences the cost.
- Laboratory procedures cost – Dental Implants are sent to technicians who make them and the amount they charge for payment isn’t always the same.
- Location of the dentist or patient – The cost of any dental procedure varies depending on the clinic or office’s location. The same goes for dental implants.
Individual Cost per Dental Implant Type
Mini Dental Implants: $500 to $1,000 per tooth
These types of implants are temporary implants and are used to stabilize a denture because originally, dental implants were not really meant for long-term use. However, most of the time they are placed for greater chances of success of the implant surgery. In some cases, it is the only option for those that do not have enough bone to place a full-sized and standard artificial root or implant.
Standard Dental Implants: $3,000 to $4,500 per tooth
A standard dental implant is usually made of titanium alloy. There are various materials to choose from for dental implant crowns, including PFM or porcelain-fused-to-metal, e.max, layered zirconia, full-contour zirconia, porcelain-filled composites, and full dental gold. Dental implants made out of zirconia and full dental gold are the sturdiest and longest-lasting among the other choices.
All-on-4 Dental Implants: $8,000 to $17,000 (removable); $15,000 to $30,000 per arch (fixed)
This type of implant is a trademarked dental implant procedure. It is done with 4 to 6 titanium implants that secure dentures to either the entire top or bottom arch. The brand offers snap-on or removable implants and also screw-retained or fixed dental implants. Since screw-retained implants are fixed, they can only be removed by the dentist, while removable ones can be removed whenever and wherever. However, just like other dental procedures, there are also some risks with this procedure. The dentist can help with the consideration of this option as an alternative treatment plan to individual implants or just a set of standard dentures.
Clear Choice Dental Implants: $3,000 to $6,000 per tooth
Clear Choice Dental Implant has centers that offer specialized dental implant treatment as an all-in-one procedure at any individual location.
Same Day Dental Implants: $5,000 to $8,000 per tooth
Same day dental implants provide both the dental implant surgery itself and other procedures which include either tooth extraction or bone grafting on the same day.
This type of implant is also known as:
- Immediate dental implants
- Immediate loading of dental implants
- Teeth-in-a-Day
Costs Covered by Dental Insurance
There are some dental insurance plans that cover a portion of the whole dental implant process. However, the majority of dental care plans recognize implants as an optional or elective procedure in the field of cosmetic dentistry, so it may cover just the tooth extraction and placement of permanent crowns.
Your dental insurance may cover the additional costs for the portion of the implant process such as implant insertion and abutment, but it will cover not more than $1,500 in a year. This is the maximum amount most standard dental insurance plans can cover.
For an insurance company to ensure that you’ll get their dental insurance plan, they may require some sort of evidence. The dentist should provide proof of extraction, bone graft, implants treatment and permanent crown, basically anything that is necessary for the surgery based on the patient’s individual issues. The insurance company will then decide whether a procedure was required or not, in order to choose what part of the implant process will be covered.
TGUC Financial and Dental Financing
TGUC Financial has financing options for those with no dental insurance and bad credit scores. We submit your loan inquiry to multiple loan companies and provide you with the best rate. Don’t delay your dental procedure for financial reasons. We can help you with dental financing to help you take care of your teeth. Contact us today.
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