If you’re considering getting dental implants to replace a missing or damaged tooth, you should know what they cost before you commit. Knowing how much something will cost upfront can be especially helpful in this case because implant dentistry isn’t always an affordable option for everyone.
In this blog post, we will provide you with comprehensive cost-related information about getting dental implants. We’ll discuss the factors affecting dental implant cost, health fund coverage, payment options, and more. By the end, we hope you’ll have a better understanding of estimated costs so you can make informed decisions about your oral health care needs with confidence.
Keep reading if you’re ready—it’s time to get informed!
Contents Navigation
- 1 Summary of the Article
- 2 How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
- 3 Why Are Dental Implants More Expensive Than Other Replacement Teeth?
- 4 What Factors Affect the Cost of Dental Implants?
- 5 How Does the Material of the Dental Implant Affect the Cost?
- 6 How Do the Experience and Qualifications of the Dental Surgeon Impact the Cost of Dental Implants?
- 7 How Does the Location of the Dental Clinic Affect the Cost of Dental Implants?
- 8 Are Dental Implants Covered by Health Funds?
- 9 Is It Possible to Add Coverage for Dental Implants to My Policy?
- 10 Are There Financing Options Available for Dental Implants?
- 11 Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for Dental Implants?
- 12 Can I Get a Quote for Dental Implants Before My Appointment?
- 13 How Can I Save Money on Dental Implants While Ensuring Quality Treatment?
- 14 Final Thoughts
Summary of the Article
- The cost of dental implants varies from patient to patient, depending on several factors.
- Single-tooth implants can cost from $4,000 to $6,000 per implant.
- The average cost of implant-supported bridges falls between $7,200 and $12,500.
- Implant-supported dentures range from $15,000-$18,000
- All-on-Four dental implants are estimated to cost \$25,000 to \$42,000.
- Zirconia implants ($4,000-$10,100) are more expensive than titanium implants ($3,100 – $8,000).
- More experienced and skilled dentists usually charge more for their services.
- Dental implants are more expensive in highly developed or urban areas than in rural ones.
- Health funds may cover the cost of implants if the procedure is deemed medically necessary.
- Adding coverage for dental implants may be possible with a waiting period involved.
- Financing options such as Afterpay, CareCredit, DentiCare, Humm, Supercare and ZipPay are available for those with financing constraints.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants are a revolutionary dental technology that allows you to replace teeth lost due to tooth decay or trauma. They are embedded in the jaw bone and act like natural teeth as they help restore both function and aesthetics. However, they do not come cheap.
The total cost of dental implants will depend on several factors. One of them is the type of implant used. Each one varies in cost.
For single-tooth implants, the price ranges from $4,000 to $6,000 per single implant, while implant-supported bridges cost anywhere from $7,200 to $12,500. Implant-supported dentures will likely cost $15,000 to $18,000, and All-on-Four dental implants can cost anywhere from $25,000 to $42,000.
As always, it pays to shop around and research different options available in your area. This way, you can find a good deal when making an important investment in your smile and dental health. You’ll need to consult your dentist to get an accurate cost estimate. They will be able to evaluate your needs and provide an individualised quote.
Why Are Dental Implants More Expensive Than Other Replacement Teeth?
Dental implants are more expensive than other teeth replacement options for several reasons. For example, the level of expertise required for dental implants is more complex than other treatment plans. The dental implant procedure is a complicated process. Thus, there is a need for a more developed skillset from the dentist and lab technicians, both necessary to develop and implant the prosthetic tooth.
Additionally, the materials used in dental implants are of higher quality. They are durable and designed to last many years with proper care. Other alternative treatment options require periodic adjustments due to material breakdown – something dental implants will not need. Dental implants may have a more expensive upfront cost, but they are cheaper overall.
Compared to other tooth replacement options such as dental bridges or dentures, dental implants:
- Do not require the use of healthy adjacent natural teeth for anchorage like bridges.
- Do not slip or fall, unlike dentures.
- Do not need to be replaced after every few years.
Dental implants have an added expense over time due to follow-up visits for routine maintenance, but the long-term effectiveness of the implant outweighs this cost.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Dental Implants?
The cost of dental implants is largely affected by several factors. These include:
- The number of dental implants needed:
The more teeth need to be replaced, the more dental implants are needed and the higher the cost of the treatment. - The complexity of the procedure:
More complex cases may require more time and effort, resulting in costlier implants. - The type of dental implant used:
Different types of dental implants have different costs. - The need for additional procedures:
Additional procedures, such as bone grafts, tooth extraction, gum disease treatment, and sinus lifts, will incur additional costs. - The dental implant material:
The material used for the implants can also affect the cost. Zirconia is usually more expensive than other materials, like titanium implants. - The dentist’s expertise and skill:
The experience and skill of the dentist performing the procedure can also influence the cost. Experienced dentists have higher rates. - Geographical location:
Implants may be more expensive in large cities and metropolitan areas compared to rural areas.
With so many factors affecting cost, the ideal way to get an accurate estimate of the cost of your dental implant procedure is to consult a qualified dentist.
How Does the Material of the Dental Implant Affect the Cost?
Dental implants can be an expensive choice for tooth replacement, and how much you’ll pay for them will partly depend on the material. The type of dental implant material you choose will affect the cost of implants.
The two most commonly used materials in dental implants are:
- Titanium and its alloy
- Zirconium (or ceramic)
Both these materials are considered safe, biocompatible, and FDA-approved.
Titanium Implants
The estimated cost for titanium dental implants is generally between $3,100 and $8,000. Titanium posts and screws are often considered the gold standard for dental implants. They are:
- Corrosion-resistant
- Lightweight
- Strong and durable
However, they can cause metal allergy reactions in rare cases and have galvanic toxicity properties.
Zirconia Implants
Compared to titanium, zirconia is considered a more recent implant material. They are also called ceramic implants.
Their average cost is around $4,400 to $10,100.
Zirconia:
- Is a metal-free dental implant option
- Has better aesthetics because they are more natural-looking
- Is non-allergic
- Non-corrosive
However, they are susceptible to micro-fractures, are not customisable and are less flexible.
Zirconia implants require a complex manufacturing process. This makes them more expensive than titanium implants.
How Do the Experience and Qualifications of the Dental Surgeon Impact the Cost of Dental Implants?
The experience and qualifications of the dental surgeon play a huge role in how much dental implants cost. More knowledgeable, experienced professionals usually command higher prices due to the quality assurance they can provide. Working with a highly-skilled dentist means you’re likely to pay extra for the peace of mind that comes with knowing the surgical procedure is done by an expert.
It would help if you asked potential dentists the following questions:
- How long have they been specialising in dental surgery?
- How many dental implant cases do they handle yearly?
- How long have they been placing dental implants?
These are all great ways to determine how well-equipped the dentist and the clinic might be for the procedure you need to have done.
How Does the Location of the Dental Clinic Affect the Cost of Dental Implants?
The location of a dental clinic is important when researching how much dental implants may cost. Depending on where the dental clinic is located, prices can vary significantly.
Dental clinics in more rural areas tend to have lower overhead costs, so procedures such as dental implants are usually lower than those in urban settings where rent and operating costs are higher.
Additionally, the cost of living in certain areas can affect the cost of dental implants. For example, if you live in an area with a relatively high standard of living, you may pay more for services than in an area with a lower cost of living.
Researching providers thoughtfully will help patients decide how much they are willing to pay (or not) for their implants based on location.
Are Dental Implants Covered by Health Funds?
Most health funds will not cover dental implants as they consider them cosmetic dental procedures. However, that doesn’t mean all is lost for those wishing to get dental implants. Some private health funds may offer savings on certain procedures related to the placement of dental implants, such as the cost of x-rays or the surgical procedure itself. It’s always worthwhile checking with your private provider before making a decision to see if you’re eligible for any benefits.
If you cannot claim any extra benefits from your health fund, there are still options available. It’s possible to opt for payment plans or seek funding through financial institutions with dental financing options or credit cards with extended payment terms available on larger purchases.
Is It Possible to Add Coverage for Dental Implants to My Policy?
Depending on the type of health fund policy you have and the add-on you choose, it may be possible to add coverage for dental implants to your policy. Generally, there is a waiting period involved: three months for general treatment and six or twelve months, depending on the complexity and cost of the procedure.
If you want to add coverage specifically for dental implant treatment, read through your policy and add-on details carefully.
Understanding what’s included in your policy before committing is important. This will determine how much benefit is available and when it can be accessed for treatment.
Talk to your health fund representative if you have any questions or concerns.
Are There Financing Options Available for Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer a much-needed solution for patients with missing or damaged teeth. For those considering such an important treatment but hesitant due to financing constraints, the good news is that there are financing options available for dental implants. These include:
Afterpay
Afterpay is a payment solution that lets you pay for your dental implant treatments in four interest-free instalments. In most cases, if the treatment cost is over $500, you can pay in four equal instalments over eight weeks. It’s also available at select dental offices throughout the country.
CareCredit
CareCredit is an option that offers up to 24 months of interest-free financing. This allows you to break down the cost of your treatment into manageable payments and spread the cost over two years.
DentiCare
DentiCare is another financing option available for dental implants. It offers interest-free repayment terms of up to 24 months and is available at select practices throughout Australia.
Humm
Humm offers two different products, so you can choose the one that fits your needs. Whether making a small or a large purchase, there is a Humm product for you.
- Buy Big Things:
This product offers 6, 12, and 24 months of interest-free financing on larger purchases of up to $5,000. - Buy Little Things:
With this product, you can easily pay off expenses up to $2,000 in five two-week intervals or ten one-week increments.
In-House Financing
Most clinics will provide flexible payment plans backed by financing companies and offers to defray some of the costs associated with this type of dental care.
Supercare
With early access to your superannuation, you can enjoy greater financial freedom. This money can be used for various medical expenses – from check-ups and surgeries to dental appointments. And there’s no limit on how much cash you take out.
ZipPay
ZipPay is a financial service that enables you to spread the cost of your dental care with no upfront payment. It allows you to pay for your treatment in manageable, interest-free instalments over a period of time. You have the option of making weekly, fortnightly, or monthly payments. The minimum repayment fee for the entire payment period begins at $40 per month.
Ultimately, these financing options allow patients to receive the dental implant they need to replace their damaged or missing teeth without worrying about financing issues. With the right financing options, a dental implant is easily within reach.
Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for Dental Implants?
Patients looking to enhance their smiles with the help of dental implants may find discounts and promotions available when they seek dental treatment. These make dental implant procedures more accessible for those who want to reap the benefits of long-lasting tooth replacement surgery.
Many dental clinics offer discounts or promotions on dental implants and other dental procedures. It pays to ask your dentist if there are any discounts available.
Can I Get a Quote for Dental Implants Before My Appointment?
Obtaining an estimated quote before your appointment to get dental implants can be extremely helpful. Doing so can help you prepare for the process and associated costs.
Dental implant surgery involves placing false teeth in place of missing natural teeth. The implants look and feel just like natural teeth. There are many dentists and clinics that offer such services. Getting a quote beforehand can help you compare standard prices and make an informed decision explicitly tailored to your needs.
How Can I Save Money on Dental Implants While Ensuring Quality Treatment?
Saving money on dental implants can be tricky, especially when it is important that you receive quality treatment. Fortunately, with a few tips, you can save money on the treatment without compromising quality.
- Research all possible treatment plans to find the one that suits your needs and budget.
- Talk to your insurance provider about what treatments are covered by your plan.
- Explore different flexible payment options that work with your budget while still receiving the necessary care.
- Never sacrifice quality for cost. Always look for the most qualified professional who provides quality care but charges well within your means.
By following these tips, you can save money on tooth implants while securing quality treatment.
Final Thoughts
The cost of dental implants is a complex calculation. Each dental implant treatment is unique, and it varies from patient to patient. This is why it’s difficult to provide an estimate without first assessing the patient.
Several factors contribute to dental implant prices, such as the material used, the dentist’s experience, and geographical location. However, for most patients, the cost of dental implants is generally worth it since these treatments are designed to last for many years.
With dental implants, the benefits go beyond aesthetics. They also provide improved oral health and an enhanced quality of life overall.
If you’re ready to experience what dental implants can do for you, book an appointment for an initial consultation at Mary River Dental. You may do so through our website or by giving us a call. An experienced team of dentists are here to help you get what you need for a beautiful smile.
Preventive Care
Invisalign
General Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
Emergency Dentist
Children’s Dentist
Dental Implants
Sleep Dentistry