Dental implants have increased in popularity for a number of reasons over the past several years. People lose teeth due to age, accidents or injury, and normal wear and tear. Replacing those teeth has become much easier with the use of dental implants. Implants also create a more natural looking and better-feeling tooth, and therefore a more natural smile. But, many people wonder: How much will my dental implant cost?
When you hear “dental implant,” you are most likely thinking about the dollar signs associated with that kind of aesthetic procedure. Many patients are reluctant to consider this path, simply because of the costs they believe to be associated with it. Hopefully, we can help to shed some light on this area, and make it less intimidating for those of you who might benefit from this valuable tooth repair tool.
One thing you should know is that dental implants are usually a two-step procedure:
- The implant – The implant is first put in place of the missing tooth. During the healing process, the bone grows around the implant and locks it in securely. This process can take up to 12 weeks. Two types of ADA approved dental implants that are currently available: endosteal and subperiosteal.
- The crown – The implant is then followed-up with a crown, once the implant is firmly rooted. This phase also includes a small connector piece to which the crown is attached. Your dentist will customize the new crown to fit with your bite and even the current color of your teeth so that it looks as natural as possible. Once the customization is finished, the crown is attached to the implant.
The dental implant cost can vary significantly. This is probably not what you want to hear. The severity of problems with your individual teeth and the location of the tooth (or teeth) to be replaced will determine the final cost. However, the average dental implant cost ranges between $1000 and $4000, and sometimes beyond. But, your actual cost will depend on many factors. The need for bone grafting may also be an issue, and will have to be factored into the cost.
Determining the actual cost for you begins with a conversation. Part of the process involves your Charleston dentist evaluating your individual needs, and discussing your options with you. Write down your questions, and bring them in so that we can go through them together and come up with a dental implant treatment plan that will fit you and your budget.
Unfortunately, most dental insurance plans do not cover this procedure at this time–most of the time it is less than 10% of the total cost. Depending on the cause of your tooth loss, however, your health insurance may cover some of the cost. This can all be part of our conversation about the health of your teeth and your possible need for implants. There are also many, many options for covering the cost of dental implants. Check out services, providers, and discount plans like Brighter or DentalPlans.com. And don’t forget to discuss payment plans with our dentist office too.
Aside from the cost, it is important to remember that if regular dental care was important before you received your implants, it is even more important after. It is extremely important to make sure that your new tooth (or teeth) remain healthy too. So maintaining a relationship with us, your Charleston dentist, is extremely important. We have plenty of information on maintaining healthy teeth, but also on ways to restore your teeth.