The demand for dental implants is on the rise as more people realise how beneficial they can be. Dental implants last longer, are more comfortable, look and feel like your teeth, and don’t require extra maintenance compared to conventional dentures or tooth-bonded bridges.
But how much do dental implants cost? There are many different things that can increase or decrease the cost of dental implants. In this article, we’ll go over all the significant factors so that you can better understand what to expect.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that support the restoration of a missing tooth or teeth, helping to stop jaw bone loss.
A tooth implant system has three essential parts:
- the post, also called fixture, body, or screw
- the abutment
- the crown
Post
The implant post, also known as the fixture, is a screw placed beneath the gums. The most popular implant material for it is titanium because it can fuse with human tissue without significant complications.
Abutment
The abutment is a connecting piece between the implant post and the prosthetic tooth.
Prosthesis
A prosthesis, or artificial tooth, is placed on top of a tooth implant. It can be made from materials like porcelain or ceramic and cemented or screwed securely into place.
What are the most common types of tooth implants?
Endosteal implants
An endosteal implant is a type of tooth implant that is put directly into your jawbone to function as a sturdy artificial root.
Subperiosteal implants
Rather than being inserted into the jawbone, subperiosteal implants sit on top of the bone but are still located beneath the gum line.
What are the factors impacting the cost of dental implants?
Many factors affect the cost of implants. So let’s delve deeper.
The expertise of your surgeon – With more experience, your surgeon would charge a higher price.- The number of teeth being replaced – The cost to replace one missing tooth is less expensive than multiple teeth. If you are missing an arch, there is no need to worry about the high cost of replacing each tooth separately. A dental restoration, such as a denture or bridge, can be supported by only a few posts, in place of your natural teeth. The size of the restoration will affect how much it will cost.
- Quality of dental implant materials – The root portion of dental implants is made from titanium, while the crown is crafted from ceramic. Many patients choose titanium for their dental implants because it is biocompatible and, therefore, safe to use in the jawbone; therefore, titanium is a commonly used implant material. If a patient is allergic to metal or experiences sensitivity, they may need different materials. This could potentially impact the dental implant cost. Ceramic implants are the most natural-looking option, next to titanium. Zirconia is by far the best ceramic alternative out there, and it will match your other teeth perfectly.
- Patient’s dental health – Those who have had dental infections may find it difficult to get implants. Some common dental conditions are abscesses, jaw infections, or gum disease. While it is possible to put an implant in these cases, patients must know that earlier infection can lead to implant failure. The price of dental implants can increase when replacements are necessary.
- Other elements – X-rays and CT scans are essential to preventing nerve damage, but you will have to pay for them. If you lack enough bone, you might have to fund a bone graft; lastly, you may need to pay to get a damaged or broken tooth pulled if it hasn’t been removed.
The expertise of your surgeon –What is the dental implant procedure like?
Before getting dental implants, you must first go through a series of evaluation steps to ensure that the surgery is right for you. This process includes:
- Comprehensive dental exam. Your dentist will take dental X-rays and 3D images and create models of your teeth and jaw.
- Review of your medical history. Be sure to inform your dentist about any existing medical conditions and medications you are currently taking; this includes prescription and over-the-counter supplements or drugs.
- Treatment plan. This dental implant treatment plan is tailored to your situation. Factors like how many teeth you need replacing and the state of your jawbone and remaining teeth are considered. The types of anaesthesia recommended for this type of surgery include IV sedation, general anaesthesia, or local anaesthesia. Your dentist will recommend a type of anaesthesia based on your case.
When bone grafting is needed
You may need bone grafting before your dental implant surgery if your jawbone isn’t thick enough, or is too soft. The intense chewing action of your mouth puts a lot of pressure on the bone, and surgery is more likely to fail if it can’t support the tooth implant. A bone graft strengthens the bones to provide a more sturdy foundation for the implant.
Placing the dental implant
To place the dental implant during surgery, your dentist will make a cut in your gum to expose the bone. Once exposed, holes are drilled into the bone where the post for the dental implant will be placed. The implant post is inserted deep into the bone, serving as the tooth root.
Even after this procedure, you will still have a noticeable gap where your tooth is missing. If necessary for appearance’s sake, a type of partial, temporary denture can be placed. You can safely remove this denture to clean it and also while you sleep.
Waiting for bone growth
The osseointegration process starts once the implant post is placed in your jawbone. The surface of the dental implant unites with the jawbone during this process. This process, which usually takes a few months, helps give your new artificial tooth the firm foundation that natural teeth have.
Placing the abutment
Once osseointegration is complete, you might require more surgery to attach the abutment, where the crown will be placed. Local anaesthesia will be used during this surgery, typically done in one outpatient visit.
To place the abutment:
- Your dentist makes an incision in your gums to expose the dental implant.
- The abutment is connected to the tooth implant.
- Next, the gum tissue is closed around the abutment.
The approximate healing time for your gums after the placement of an abutment is two weeks.
Placing the artificial tooth
After your gums have recovered, your dentist will make multiple impressions of your mouth and remaining teeth. They will use these dental impressions to create your crown, which is a realistic-looking artificial tooth. The new tooth cannot be placed until your jawbone is healthy enough to support it.
You and your dentist can opt for artificial teeth that are fixed, removable, or a combination of both. A removable tooth is fitted onto a metal frame and secured to the abutment. You can take it out of your mouth for cleaning purposes. The fixed tooth will be secured to the abutment using screws or cement. Be sure to inform your dentist of any severe pain, bleeding, discomfort, or swelling you experience after the procedure.
How much do dental implants cost?
Dental implants in Australia can be surprisingly affordable. A single implant may cost only $3,000 , while additional procedures like bone grafts or sinus lifts typically add no more than an extra $6,000 to the total bill. Your dentist can estimate the cost of dental implant surgery.
Does health insurance cover implants?
The answer to whether or not your cosmetic dentistry will be covered by insurance in Australia depends on your provider. However, dental plans typically don’t include these services because they only cover preventive treatments like fillings and cleanings. Although health insurance companies do not always cover tooth implant treatment costs, some policies may pay for part of the expense, if the treatment is deemed to be medical rather than cosmetic.
What are the advantages of having dental implants?
Dental implants look just like your natural teeth
Dental implants not only look natural, but they are also designed to match the colour and shape of your existing teeth.
Dental implants are cavity-free
Just like natural teeth, artificial teeth require proper care to avoid bacteria and infection; however, tooth implants will never decay. Dental implants give people a carefree way to substitute their natural teeth and avoid cavities.
Dental implants are permanent
Unlike dentures and bridges, which will eventually need to be replaced, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. With proper care, your implants can last for many years.
Dental implants are low-maintenance
Dental implants are low-maintenanceUnlike other dental prosthetics, you don’t need to buy additional products to take care of dental implants, and they’re straightforward to clean. Just as you take care of your natural teeth by flossing and brushing, do the same with your artificial teeth.
Dental implants make everyday tasks easier
Eating and speaking typically can be challenging if you’re missing one or more teeth. Dental implants are the best solution for this problem as they look and function just like real teeth.
Dental implants keep nearby teeth from moving
The teeth next to the empty space can gradually move when you have a missing tooth. This may affect your smile and how well you chew. By filling in the gaps in your smile, tooth implants help to prevent your nearby teeth from shifting.
Get a confident smile with dental implants
At Infinity Dental Care, we firmly believe that patients should not have to worry about the cost of their dental implant treatment when they are already facing dental complications. Our team has vast experience, and we’re passionate about providing access to affordable dental services that are also convenient for you. We provide you with an extensive range of cosmetic, restorative, and general dental treatments within a single practice.
Call us at (02) 9159 6237 and book your appointment.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Dental Implants
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants
Dental Implant Guide: Costs, Process, Risks & More
https://www.smile.com.au/dental-treatments/implants