How Much Are Dental Implants In 2023?


It’s difficult enough to lose a tooth without having to worry about how much are dental implants. Unfortunately, getting a dental implant is expensive. You might believe you need to break a sizable piggy bank to pay it off. The truth is that many variables affect how much an implant costs. You’re likely asking many questions, such as whether you should get an implant or a denture. The primary distinction between an implant and a denture is that the former is detachable. At the same time, the latter is fixed and functions more like an artificial tooth. 

Millions of people worldwide had their lives drastically altered by the development of dental implants. Patients frequently lose track of having had implants placed because they imitate natural teeth well. Your dentist provides several solutions if saving your original tooth is impossible. An implant is the most effective remedy. It can last a lifetime with little upkeep.

Many patients are concerned about the cost of dental implants. Saving money on dental restoration procedures now, though, can mean a future with a lower quality of life. Let’s discuss what dental implants typically cost.

how much are dental implants

Factors That Determine How Much Are Full Mouth Dental Implants 

Dental implants can appear to be expensive. Why, then, are dental implants so pricey? The answer to the query “How Much Are Full Dental Implants” is not straightforward. There are several cost considerations to keep in mind:

The Dentist

This cost factor is based on several factors, such as the dentist’s expenses, the location (some patients seek cheaper dental care abroad), and the individual patient’s pricing. Furthermore, a dentist with more experience is more likely to charge a higher fee. An implant is considered surgery and not comparable to a filling or a straightforward tooth extraction.[1] You hire an implantologist, prosthodontist, or oral surgeon to complete it. Thus you are paying for their knowledge.

Examinations, Consultations, Patient’s Condition, And Prerequisites

There is also an impact on the price of the procedure based on the state of the gums and jawbone of the patient. You may also see an increase in the procedure cost if you need dental work or bone grafting to prepare your mouth for implants. To have the implant placed, you are required to see your dentist for X-rays, a diagnosis (including whether an implant is necessary), and a prognosis before proceeding.

Anesthesia Choice.

The procedure of implanting a device is quite intrusive so that you will require pain medication before and after the procedure. Depending on what type you require, there can be a significant difference in the cost of your anesthesia.

Implant Components

Also affecting the cost of implants is the quality of the material used for their manufacture, usually titanium or zirconium.

Dentist’s Facility

The price of the crown may vary based on the laboratory the dentist uses for the process since certain laboratories may charge a higher price than others.

Implant Characteristics And Customization.

The fact that implants are made to fit the individual is what makes them suitable for a one-size-fits-all solution since each one is made to fit their own needs. Because of this, prices will differ from patient to patient.

Can Insurance Cover The Cost Of Dental Implants?

What is the price of dental implants covered by insurance? Your dental plan will determine this. Insurance for implants is included in certain plans but not in others. Before beginning the process of getting an implant, check with your insurance providers for both medical and dental coverage.

Don’t be deterred by the cost of implants, even though they can appear expensive. Dental implants should be viewed as a lifetime investment. They may last forever if you take care of them and have some assistance from financing or insurance. Find out your alternatives by contacting your insurance company.

How Much Are Full Dental Implants?

Dental implants cost an average of $3,000 – $5,000. This includes the placement of the post, the abutment, and the crown. The costs of bone grafting, tooth extraction, CT scan, and X-ray are separate. There are also a number of factors that affect the cost. Dental implants are highly customized for each individual case. That’s why the cost may vary from patient to patient.

Realizing dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care is crucial. You’re saving yourself much future stress and work by investing time and money in them. Compared to other methods of replacing missing teeth, the procedure has a higher cost-benefit ratio. Unlike dentures and dental bridges, they don’t need to be replaced regularly or require you to modify healthy teeth. You can practice speaking or eating if you have dental implants; they have a natural tooth-like feel.

These costs below represent the national average.[2]

Post — $1,000 — $3,000

Abutment and Crown — $1,000 — $3,000

Bone Grafting — $200 — $3,000 (based on the complexity of the procedure)

Tooth Extraction — $75 — $650 (also varies with complexity)

CT Scan — $250 — $1,000

X-Ray — $20 — $200

how much are full mouth dental implants

How Much Are Dental Implants With Insurance?

In most cases, dental insurance does not cover the cost of dental implants. Some providers may partially cover the implant crown. Dental implants are becoming more common due to their continued effectiveness. However, insurance companies still view them as elective operations. Insurance companies will eventually realize that dental implants offer long-term patient benefits over other tooth replacement choices.

Ask for a treatment allowance equal to the price of a dental bridge or conventional dentures if your insurance doesn’t cover dental implants (or covers a tiny portion of the procedure).

The top dental plans that cover implants are as follows:

Dental Insurance by Delta

Spirit Dental & Vision Denali Dental

Dental Ameritas Cigna[3]

Instead of opting for less expensive procedures, you can get affordable dental implants by investigating these and related options. It’s crucial to research dental insurance companies in advance because certain plans require approval in advance.

How Much Are Dental Implants Cost? What You Can Afford?

There are a few different ways you can pay for implants if your dental insurance doesn’t cover them and you need more time and a chance to transfer plans.

Dentistry Loans

Loans for dental work are personal loans that can be used to pay for pricey operations like dental implants. Consider the following aspects while selecting the best dental loan to pay for your implant:

Annual percentage rate

Added charges

Approval process

Requirements (minimum income, credit score, etc.) 

Internal Payment Plans

Many dentists provide internal payment options. Every situation is discussed separately. Loans typically cost more than these kinds of plans. Additionally, they are simpler to set up. You pay your amount incrementally until the entire cost of the implant work is covered.

HRA, FSA, or HSA

If dental implants are not inserted for aesthetic purposes, they are an allowable expense for your FSA (Flexible Spending Account), HRA (Health Reimbursement Account), and HSA (Health Savings Account). You can lessen the cost of placing a dental implant if you have one of these accounts set up.

Why Are Dental Implants A Worthy Investment?

Dental implants are currently the most effective tooth replacement option. Dental implant recipients live regular lives without experiencing any discomfort when speaking, smiling, or chewing. Dental bridges and Dentures are the two alternatives available to patients concerned about dental implants cost. Both of these choices, however, have significant drawbacks.

Dental Bridges

It is necessary to grind down healthy teeth before placing a bridge. When more than two neighboring teeth are gone, it’s rarely an effective treatment. Cleaning dental bridges are challenging.

Dentures

It takes some time to get used to them (speaking and eating require practice). They require particular attention and prompt replacement. Gum infections could result from improper placement. Dentures that are improperly fitted slip around the mouth, making it challenging to speak, eat, or grin.

Both options can worsen existing gum and dental issues in the long run. They need to be changed frequently. Even though implants are initially more expensive than bridges and dentures, you can spend much more if you want to maintain them and correct any problems they may introduce. It’s important to remember that only some patients qualify for dental implants. Speak to your dentist to learn if you are eligible.

Summary

How much are dental implants varies from patient to patient because every situation is unique. It relies on several variables, including the surgeon’s experience and the quantity of preparatory care. Dental implants are typically not covered by insurance. However, there are various ways to reduce the cost of the treatment.

Reference

[1] Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery “Basics of Dental Implantology for the Oral Surgeon” Springer Nature,  2021

[2] What’s the Average Dental Implant Cost? “A Patient’s Guide to the Cost of Dental Implant Surgery” Oral Surgery DC, 2022

[3] The 7 Best Dental Insurance Plans “Best Dental Insurance Plans With No Waiting Period” Investopedia, 2022