How much do dental implants cost?

Dental implants have revolutionized dentistry, offering a permanent solution for individuals grappling with tooth loss. Missing teeth, whether due to injury, decay, gum disease, or other factors, can significantly impact not only your oral health but also your confidence and overall well-being. Understanding the intricacies of dental implants, including their cost, what to expect during the procedure, and potential side effects, is crucial for anyone considering this treatment option.

Unveiling the Cost Factor: A Breakdown of Expenses
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several key factors:

1. Number of Implants Needed
Replacing a single missing tooth will naturally cost less than replacing multiple teeth or an entire arch.

2. Complexity of the Procedure
Additional procedures like bone grafting, required for patients with insufficient jawbone density, can significantly increase the overall cost.

3. Material and Type of Implant
The materials used for both the implant itself, typically titanium and the crown where options include porcelain or zirconia, can influence the price.

4. Dentist’s Experience and Location
Highly experienced dentists or clinics situated in prime locations may have higher fees.

While the initial cost of dental implants might seem substantial, consider it a long-term investment. Unlike dentures or bridges that may require frequent replacements and associated expenses, dental implants, with proper care, can potentially last a lifetime, making them cost-effective in the long run. 

Tooth implant, how long does it last:

• With proper care and maintenance, good oral hygiene, good overall health, a healthy lifestyle and proper procedure during surgery, the dental implants are able to last a lifetime be it full dental implants or singular dental implants.

Exploring Financing Options:

The cost of dental implants can be a significant hurdle for some patients. Thankfully, many dental clinics offer flexible financing options to make treatment more accessible. 

For Minmed, the cost breakdown is as follows,

• Implant surgery $2000 (medisave deductible $1250)

Implant crown $1600 

Total: $3600 plus gst

The cost of one tooth replacement is about $3600 if there are no complications. 

Downside of Dental Implants:
Cost: The implant procedure, which includes the placement of both the implant and the custom crown, can be expensive, especially when replacing multiple teeth. While they offer long-term benefits, the initial cost can be a barrier for some individuals. 

Surgical Procedure: Implantation dentistry involves a minor surgical procedure, which carries inherent risks like infection, nerve damage, or sinus complications. However, these risks are significantly reduced when performed by a qualified and experienced dentist or oral surgeon. Consulting a board-certified professional with a proven track record is crucial to minimize risks. Research on dentists for dental implants and check their credibility before committing to the clinic.

Healing Time: Following the implant procedure, a healing period of several months is necessary for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. The process is known as osseointegration. During this time, temporary prosthetics may be used, and dietary restrictions might be implemented.

Eligibility and Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe gum disease, may affect the success rate of dental implants. Additionally, inadequate bone density in the jaw may necessitate bone grafting procedures before implant placement can proceed.

Potential for Implant Failure: While rare, dental implant failure can occur due to factors such as poor oral hygiene, smoking, or excessive force placed on the implant. Regular dental care and maintaining good oral health habits are essential for ensuring the long-term success of your teeth implants.

Treatment Complexity: The process of receiving teeth implants involves multiple stages, from the initial consultation and planning to surgery, healing, and placement of the final restoration. This multi-step process can seem lengthy or intimidating for some patients. Discussing the treatment timeline, different types of dental implants and expectations with your dentist beforehand can help alleviate any anxiety.

Insurance Coverage: Dental insurance may not fully cover the cost of dental implants, considering them an elective procedure. This can add a financial burden to the treatment. Exploring your insurance options and discussing potential coverage with your provider can help with financial planning.

Different types of Implant teeth

1. Endosteal Implants
Screw-like implants placed directly into the jawbone. Commonly used for replacing single teeth, supporting dental bridges, or anchoring implant-supported dentures.

2. Subperiosteal Implants
Rests on top of the jawbone and are secured with metal posts. ideal for full-arch restorations or cases where endosteal implants aren’t feasible due to insufficient jawbone height and density.

3. Mini Implants
Less invasive and suitable for patients with limited jaw space. They can stabilize loose dentures, replace single missing teeth, or act as temporary anchors.

4. All-on-4 Implants
Replaces an entire arch of missing teeth using only four strategically placed implants. It offers a cost-effective, faster treatment option with improved aesthetics and functionality.

5. Zygomatic Implants
Anchored into the cheekbone, they are specialized solutions for severe bone loss in the upper jaw,  providing options for patients who struggle with bone grafting procedures.

6. Same-day implants
Allow for temporary crowns or bridges to be placed immediately after surgery, providing immediate aesthetic and functional benefits.

7. Implant-Supported Dentures
Combining the stability of implants with the convenience of dentures for enhanced chewing efficiency, preventing bone loss, and providing a secure fit without the need for adhesives.

Minmed uses Endosteal implants under the brand Osstem due to its 

• High Success Rate: Endosteal implants have a long track record of success in replacing missing teeth and restoring oral function, providing reliable long-term results.

• Stability and Durability: Endosteal implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone, mimicking the function of natural tooth roots. This provides a stable foundation for implant  teeth, offering exceptional durability and preventing bone resorption.

• Versatility: Endosteal implants can be used for various dental restorations, including single-tooth replacements with crowns, supporting dental bridges for multiple missing teeth, and anchoring implant-supported dentures for full-mouth restoration.

• Natural Look and Feel: Because endosteal implants integrate with the jawbone, they provide a stable and secure base for prosthetic teeth that closely resemble natural teeth in appearance and function. Endosteal implants offer a comfortable and natural-feeling solution for replacing missing teeth.

Make an appointment with Minmed Dental here and consult our dentist today!