How much do dental implants cost?
How much do dental implants cost?
$3,000 – $6,000 average cost for a single tooth implant
$10,000 – $16,000 average cost for an implant-supported bridge
$15,000 – $25,000 average cost for an implant-supported denture
Average dental implant cost
Dental implants cost $3,000 to $6,000 for a single tooth implant, including the implant post, abutment, and crown restoration. Dental implant prices for an implant-supported bridge are $10,000 to $16,000. The cost of full-mouth dental implants is $60,000 to $90,000 depending on the number of implants placed.
Dental insurance benefits may cover some portion of the implant surgery or restoration costs, but the common annual maximum of $1,500 to $3,000 per year applies. This means the bulk of the treatment costs will be out-of-pocket, even with insurance coverage.
| Restoration | Average treatment cost | Number of implants placed |
|---|---|---|
| Single tooth implant | $3,000 – $6,000 | 1 |
| Implant-supported bridge | $10,000 – $16,000 | 2 |
| Implant-supported denture ("All-on-4") |
$15,000 – $25,000 per arch | 4 – 6 |
| Full-mouth individual implants | $60,000 – $90,000 | 10 – 20+ |
When planning, remember that individual costs vary depending on your specific needs and can change throughout treatment. Also, the implant price does not include costs for diagnostic imaging, general anesthesia, tooth and root extractions, bone grafting, or sinus lift procedures.
Single tooth implant
Replacing a single tooth with an implant costs $3,000 to $6,000 for the implant post, the abutment connecting it to the crown, and the final crown restoration. The implant post costs $1,500 to $2,000, while the additional components that make it look and function like a real tooth make up the total cost.
| Component | Average treatment cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Implant post | $1,500 – $2,000 | Titanium post screwed into the jawbone that acts as an artificial tooth root |
| Abutment | $300 – $500 | Small connector piece that emerges from the gum tissue and connects the post to the crown restoration |
| Crown restoration | $1,000 – $2,000 | Visible part of the implant, which makes it look and chew like a natural tooth |
| Exam and diagnostic imaging (X-rays, CT scans) |
$200 – $500 | Used to assess the jawbone health and plan the implant surgery by offering detailed images of the jawbone, sinuses, and other vital structures |
| Local anesthesia | Included in procedure cost | Numbs the area around the implant placement site during surgery for patient comfort |
| Total treatment cost | $3,000 – $5,000 |
Implant-supported bridge
Replacing multiple teeth with implants costs $10,000 to $16,000+ for 2 implants and a bridge restoration that spans the space between the implants, replacing a total of 3 or 4 adjacent teeth.
An implant-supported bridge anchors to dental implants rather than relying solely on natural teeth for support. Dentists place titanium implants into the jawbone, then attach connectors, or abutments. Lastly, after a healing period, they secure a prosthetic bridge to the abutments, creating a stable, functional replacement for missing teeth.
Implant-supported denture
Replacing a full arch of teeth with implants costs $15,000 to $25,000. Also called an "All-on-4," the procedure includes 4–or sometimes 6–strategically placed implants and an attached denture to replace all of the teeth in the arch.
An implant-stabilized denture offers a more secure fit, preventing slippage and sore spots. Unlike a traditional denture, implant denture patients can chew more easily and have more confidence when smiling and talking.
Full-mouth individual implants
Replacing a full set of teeth with individual implants ranges from $60,000 to $90,000+, depending on the number of teeth replaced. Using individual implants to replace missing or failing teeth is more expensive than using bridges or implant dentures, but the individual implants look and feel more natural.
Additional dental implant treatment costs
The costs associated with dental implants include more than just the implant itself. Patients should prepare for the following expenses:
Dental exam and x-rays: A comprehensive exam with diagnostic x-rays and 3D imaging (CT scan) costs $200 to $500.
Extractions: Dental extractions cost $150 to $450 per tooth to remove failing teeth before implant replacement.
Bone grafting: A bone graft costs $300 to $800 for each implant area and may be necessary if you've suffered bone loss. After grafting, you will likely need 3 to 9 months of healing time before the surgeon can place the implant.
Sinus lift: A sinus lift or sinus augmentation costs $1,500 to $5,000 to move the sinus membrane upward and add bone between your jaw and the maxillary sinuses.
Anesthesia: The implant surgery includes local anesthesia. Additional general anesthesia or sedation costs $250 to $1,000 to put you to sleep during the surgical procedure.
Specialist care: Implant surgery by oral surgeons, periodontists, and prosthodontists is more expensive than with a general dentist. Most general dentists refer you to a specialist for the surgery and then have you return to complete the restoration after the healing period.
How to save on dental implants
Dental implants are a significant investment. Some tips to help you manage the costs include:
Dental insurance: Check if your dental insurance covers any part of the implant procedure. While many plans may not cover the full cost, they might contribute to certain aspects, such as extractions or diagnostic imaging.
Dental schools and clinics: Consider seeking treatment at dental schools or clinics associated with dental education programs. These settings often lower cost services, supervised by experienced professionals.
Payment plans: Inquire about payment plans with your dental provider. Some clinics may offer installment plans or financing options through CareCredit, allowing you to spread the cost over time.
Dental discount plans: Explore dental discount plans, which are different from insurance. These plans offer discounted rates on dental services, including implants, in exchange for a membership fee.
Travel for treatment: Research dental tourism options, where you may find lower costs for dental procedures in other countries. However, be cautious and confirm the credentials of the dental professionals and the quality of care provided.
Government assistance programs: Inquire about government assistance programs or charitable organizations that may provide financial assistance for dental procedures such as x-rays, exams, and extractions of bad teeth.
Preserve oral health: Prioritize good oral hygiene to prevent further dental issues. Regular check-ups and preventive care can help avoid more extensive and costly treatments overall.
Dental implants are not a viable treatment for every patient. You should consult with a qualified dentist to assess your situation and discuss the most suitable and cost-effective options for your dental health.
Dental implant appointments
The number of appointments you’ll need for a dental implant depends on your individual treatment plan. Typically, the process involves numerous appointments, including:
Consultation appointment: At an initial consultation, the dentist reviews your oral and overall health to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.
Planning appointment: A treatment planning appointment follows the consultation, at which you discuss the implant treatment and costs.
Extraction appointment: If there's a need to remove failing teeth, a general dentist or oral surgeon schedules a separate appointment to extract them. After extraction, a healing period of several weeks follows. Some surgeons perform both tooth extraction and implant placement during the same appointment.
Implant surgery: The specialist or general dentist places the implant into the jawbone and covers it over with gum tissue. A healing period of several weeks to a few months follows, allowing the implant to fuse with the surrounding bone (osseointegration).
Abutment placement: Once the osseointegration is complete, the dentist opens the tissue to reveal the implant post, attaches the abutment, and takes an impression for the fabrication of the crown.
Final placement: After several weeks of healing, during which time the lab fabricates a crown, you will return to have the final crown attached to the implant abutment.
From start to finish, the process can take 6 or more appointments over 3 to 12 months, depending on the number of implants and the complexity of your case. Timelines are on the longer end if you need bone grafting, sinus lifts, or other treatment before the implant surgery.
Dental implant FAQs
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a surgical replacement for a missing tooth's root. The implant is a titanium component, shaped similar to a screw, which a dental surgeon implants into the jawbone. Once fused with the bone, the implant supports prosthetics like a crown, bridge, or denture.
Does dental insurance cover implants?
Dental insurance coverage for implants can vary, depending on the specific terms of your insurance plan. In many cases, dental insurance plans provide some coverage for implants, but it's essential to check the details and limitations of your individual policy.
Does Medicare cover dental implants?
Original Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) don’t offer any coverage for dental implants. Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) come with dental coverage, including implants.
How long does a dental implant take?
While dental implant surgery takes 1 to 2 hours for each implant, most dentists will allow a healing period of several months for the implant to fuse with the bone before placing the final restoration.
The total time from the initial consultation to the implant restoration is 3 to 6 months for a single implant, depending on the complexity of the case. A full-mouth restoration with extractions and bone grafting can take as much as a year.
How long does a dental implant last?
Dental implants can last for 25 years or more, depending on the quality of the implant, your overall health, and your oral hygiene. Properly placed implants and good home care habits contribute to their long-term success. Poor home care, health conditions like diabetes, and habits like smoking can cause implants to fail prematurely.
Are dental implants painful?
Dental implant procedures don’t typically involve pain during the procedure because your dentist will use anesthesia to numb the area. Afterward, it’s normal to feel some soreness and swelling, which may require over-the-counter pain medications.
Finding the best dentist for dental implants
If you are considering dental implants, consult with multiple dental professionals to get a range of estimates. Don’t focus primarily on costs but look for qualified dentists with a good record of implant success.
When scheduling a consultation, ask about their experience, discuss specific treatment recommendations, and share any concerns you may have. Here’s a list of questions to get you started:
What is your experience with dental implant procedures?
Are you a member of any professional dental organizations?
Can you assess my oral health to determine if I am a suitable candidate for dental implants?
What is the overall treatment plan for my specific case?
What types of dental implants do you offer, and which one do you recommend for me?
Are there different materials for the implants, and how do they differ?
Can you explain the steps involved in the dental implant procedure?
What is the expected timeline for the entire process?
What are the potential risks or complications associated with dental implant surgery?
How do you handle any complications that may arise during or after the procedure?
What is the expected recovery time, and what can I do to promote healing?
Are there any specific post-surgery care instructions or restrictions?
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