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Dental implants are often the preferred choice for replacing missing teeth, whether it’s one implant with a crown to replace a single tooth or multiple implants to secure a full denture firmly in place. Why? They look and function like natural teeth, and they can help ward off bone loss that can occur when missing teeth are left untreated or are replaced with a denture or bridge.
This is because the actual implant is surgically imbedded into the bone at the site of the missing tooth. Over time, the bone should grow and adhere to the implant, which functions as a tooth root. The body assumes the tooth/teeth are still in place. With dentures, there is no root and bone – which the body assumes is no longer needed to support teeth, may be absorbed.
Dental implants may also look more natural, and last longer, than other types of teeth replacements like dental bridges and dentures. They don’t interfere with your sense of taste, like dentures may do. But implants are also significantly more expensive than other teeth replacement options.
How much do dental implants cost?
Here’s a general overview of the cost associated with different types of dental implants:
Endosteal Implants:
These are the most common type of dental implants and typically cost between $1,000 to $3,000 per implant. This cost is just for the implant itself and does not include additional costs such as the abutment and crown, which can add another $1,000 to $2,000 or more per tooth, bringing the total cost to approximately $2,000 to $5,000 per tooth.
Subperiosteal Implants:
Less common than endosteal implants, these are placed just above or onto the jawbone, and are used only in cases where people don’t have sufficient bone structure to support an endosteal implant. subperiosteal implants are generally more expensive due to their complexity and the custom fabrication required. The total cost can vary widely, but it’s generally higher than for endosteal implants.
Mini Dental Implants (MDIs):
These smaller implants are less expensive than traditional implants. The cost per implant can range from $500 to $1,500, which often includes the cost of the implant, the abutment, and the crown. They are often used to stabilize lower arch dentures.
All-on-4® Implants:
This technique, used for full arch restoration, typically starts at around $20,000 to $30,000 per jaw but can go higher. This cost includes the surgery for placing the implants and the full arch of teeth.
Costs can increase if additional procedures are required. For instance, bone grafting to build up the implant-supporting jaws can cost between $200 and $3,000, depending on the extent of the grafting needed. A sinus lift, if required, can add several thousand dollars to the total cost.
It’s important to note that these prices are approximate and can vary. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to consult with a dental professional who can provide a detailed assessment based on your specific needs.
Can dental insurance reduce the cost of dental implants?
Dental insurance typically doesn’t cover implants, which are often classified as a “cosmetic treatment.” Check your coverage documentation for details. If your dental insurance does include dental implants you may be able to save 10%-20% off the cost of your implants.
But note that your annual spending cap – the total your dental insurance pays out every year – often is just $1000-$1500, about the cost of one mini-implant. That leaves you with a significant out-of-pocket cost. And you may need to add the cost of tooth extraction to the final tally, even if your teeth are missing there may still be roots buried under your gumline that need to be removed. And if your jaw bone doesn’t have enough density to support implants, you may need a procedure to build up the bone.
If your insurance doesn’t include implants, part of the procedure – such as the crown or dentures – may still be covered. It’s worth asking. And in rare cases, your medical insurance may cover the cost of dental implants that are medically necessary. Again, ask your dentist and/or insurance provider for guidance.
Dental savings plans make implants affordable
If you don’t want to worry about what dental insurance does and does not include, or have to pay out of pocket for a significant portion of the treatment, join a dental savings plan.
An affordable and trusted alternative to traditional dental insurance, dental savings plans (also known as dental discount plans) can dramatically reduce the cost of implants and virtually all dental procedures. Plan members report saving an average of 50% annually on the cost of their dental care.
Dental savings plans have no annual spending limit, which is especially important when you’re getting an expensive procedure like implants. And with dental savings plans, unlike insurance, you get discounts on dental treatment within 72-hours of joining a plan, there are no waiting periods.
If you’d like help choosing a dental savings plan that offers the biggest discount on dental implants (or other dental procedures) give us a call at 1-833-735-0399. We’re DentalPlans.com, the largest dental plan marketplace, with over 25 plans from the most trusted brands in healthcare, accepted by over 70% of U.S. dentists. We make it easy to find your perfect plan. You can also use our calculator below to see how much you can save on dental implants with a dental savings plan.
*Discount Health Program consumer and provider surveys indicate average savings of 50%. Savings may vary by provider, location, and plan.
All cost averages obtained from DentalPlans.com procedure search tool.
