Why Do Dental Implants Cost So Much?
What Are Dental Implants?
They are artificial tooth roots that replace missing teeth. Dental implants usually feature small titanium metal posts surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a strong and stable base for an artificial tooth.
How Do They Replace Teeth?
A dentist usually numbs your mouth before the implantation surgery. Next, (s)he places the metal post into the jawbone, allowing it to fuse with the bone over time through osseointegration. This process occurs for between 3 and 4 months. It is necessary to allow the dental implant to function like a natural tooth.
Once the implant has fused with the bone tissue, the dentist attaches a connector called an abutment. The role of the abutment is to allow a dental crown, bridge, or denture to attach securely over the tooth implant.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including the following:
- The location of the dental implant
- The materials used to crown the dental implant
- The type of dental implant – for example, endosteal or subperiosteal
- The pricing of the dentist performing the procedure
- The number of teeth to replace.
- The need for additional procedures, such as bone grafts, gum contouring, or tooth extractions.
On average, a single dental implant can cost anywhere between $1,000 to $4,000. The cost is higher for a full set of tooth implants, usually upwards of $20,000 or more.
Why Are They So Expensive?
A lot of dental work goes into replacing lost teeth with dental implants. The stakes are higher for multiple missing teeth. For one, the dentist must perform surgery to install dental implants in your mouth. Dental surgeries are different from typical treatment protocols in dentistry.
Secondly, dental implants in Calgary comprise unique materials. The titanium metal is biocompatible and perfect for integrating with natural bone tissue. Therefore, the chances of implant failure are low. Instead, dental implants at Chaparral Valley stake a 98% success rate.
Further, dental implants rely on other oral appliances to complete the restoration treatment. A dentist near you places a dental crown, denture, or bridgework over the dental implant to complete the treatment. Therefore, the general cost of your dental implants must account for the different oral appliances for crowning them.
Lastly, the entire timeline of dental implants is longer than other alternatives for replacing teeth. Usually, it can take between 4 and 12 months to restore your teeth with dental implants from the time of the tooth extraction. You need ample dental care to speed up healing and optimize the success of your implantation treatment.
What About Dental Insurance?
Unfortunately, dental implant procedures are often not covered by dental insurance. However, some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost. Therefore, you must find a dental clinic near you that can accommodate your financial needs when getting dental implants. Consult with your dentist and insurance provider to determine your out-of-pocket costs.
Will The Cost Be Worthwhile?
Dental implants offer a variety of benefits, including:
- Improved appearance: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They can improve the appearance of your smile and boost your confidence.
- Improved oral health: Dental implants do not require the removal of any healthy tooth structure, which can help prevent bone loss.
- Improved speech: Missing teeth can make it difficult to speak clearly. Dental implants restore proper speech patterns and improve communication.
- Improved comfort: Dental implants fit comfortably in the mouth. It reduces discomfort and irritation commonly associated with dentures or other removable dental appliances.
- Improved functionality: Dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy a wider range of foods and activities without restriction.
- Durability: Dental implants can last many years with proper care and maintenance.
Conclusion
Overall, dental implants are a long-lasting and effective solution for missing teeth that can help to improve a patient’s oral health, appearance, and quality of life. Therefore, if you can meet the costs of the treatment, there is no reason to hold back.