When it comes to dental implant cost, you cannot expect to pay the same as someone else. Why? Because there is a multitude of factors your dentist must consider when attempting to determine your eligibility and identify a price point for your treatment. Are you missing one, three, or an entire row of teeth? Do you need bone grafting or periodontal therapy before undergoing dental implant surgery? As you learn more about the process of receiving these permanent prosthetics, a dentist shares 3 key factors that help to determine how much you will pay for your new smile.
The Number of Teeth You Are Missing
The most prominent factor associated with the cost of dental implants is how many teeth you are missing. As an extremely versatile method of treatment, these prosthetics are known for addressing all types of tooth loss. No matter if you have one, multiple, or an entire arch of teeth missing, dental implants are designed to replace and restore your smile by mimicking your natural tooth structure. Naturally, a single titanium implant will cost much less than 4-8 used to replace a full row of teeth; however, if you compare the cost between implant dentures and their traditional counterpart, those held into place by titanium posts are much more cost-effective in the long run.
Whether You Require Preliminary Treatments
Most adults suffering from tooth loss are indeed eligible to receive dental implants; however, a consultation is necessary before receiving the green light for surgery. The reason for this visit is to determine if you require any preliminary treatments beforehand. If you show signs of gum disease or severe tooth decay, it may be necessary for your dentist to remove a tooth or provide periodontal therapy first, as these can cause dental implant failure if left untreated. Also, your jawbone density will need to be checked to make sure you have enough to support your implants and customized restoration. If you do not, you’ll be required to undergo a bone graft to strengthen the areas of your bone and create a solid foundation for your new smile.
Should you require any of these treatments before receiving dental implants, you can expect them to be added to the total cost.
The Experience and Training of Your Dental Surgeon
When it comes to placing dental implants, you do not want someone who has no experience or knowledge of the process. The actual placement and restoration process requires much education and hands-on training to perfect. Because it involves surgically placing small titanium posts into the jawbone, you’ll want a professional who knows what they’re doing. The more expertise a professional has, the greater their experience will play a part in the overall cost of your treatment. But remember, you get what you pay for, so trusting your smile to an individual with years of advanced training will ensure you achieve long-lasting, life-changing results.
If you’re worried that the cost of your dental implants will keep you from enjoying life with these permanent prosthetics, make sure to talk to your dental team about how you can maximize your dental insurance benefits. You’ll also want to find out about alternative payment methods (i.e., CareCredit) you can use to pay the remaining costs associated with your treatment.
About the Practice
At Long Family Dental, our team of dental experts has been caring for the residents of Midlothian for more than 40 years. A family-owned business, Dr. Robert Long and Dr. Chris Long are carrying on the work of their father, Dr. Henry Long, who originally established the practice. Joined by Dr. Wes Fichera, the three work closely together to help improve, repair, and restore the smiles of those in need. Offering dental implants to patients experiencing tooth loss, these permanent prosthetics can give individuals a better quality of life thanks to their permanence, functionality, and longevity. If you are missing one, multiple, or all your teeth, visit our website.