There
is no doubt that dental implants cost a lot of money. However, the long-term
benefits should make the cost more than worthwhile.
Most
basic dental implants cost around $1,000 for one tooth to be
replaced. The most complex dental implants cost anything up to around $30,000
for a full set of teeth. Unfortunately, your insurance will be very unlikely to
help with dental implant costs, but your dentist may be able to help with a
finance plan.
Dental
implants are made up of titanium posts inserted into the jawbone. The titanium
post acts like the roots for your teeth. Attached to the titanium post are
ceramic crows, which give the appearance of a real tooth. Once the implant is
healed, you have a fully working set of teeth and nobody will be able to tell
the difference between your implant and the real thing.
If
your implant is going to be in an area where the underlying jawbone is good and
strong, then the dental implant cost will cover a course of surgery starting with
the extraction of the problem tooth, if required, followed by the insertion of
the titanium post. Titanium is used because it is known to exist amongst live
tissue without causing problems and is extremely unlikely to cause an adverse
reaction.
When
bone structure is not so strong, if it is damaged or in an area naturally
limited in bone, such as below the sinus cavities in the upper jaw, bone
grafts may be required. This may add money to the dental implant cost and
will add time to the surgery process.
Some
people are suitable for a newer process, where an extraction can be
followed directly by the implant of a complete tooth with temporary crown,
replaced at a later date once the bone has fused to the post.
Although
dental implants cost a lot of time and money, they are a worthwhile investment.
Ask your dentist for advice about the options available and dental
implant costs compared to other treatments and procedures.