For many people, losing a tooth can be a traumatic experience, especially if it leaves a visible gap when you smile. Fortunately, advances in dental care have made dental implants a popular and effective option for tooth replacement.
Before making a decision, however, it is important to understand the dental implant process, the types of dental implants available, the cost of dental implants, and whether or not dental insurance covers the procedure.
Types of Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial teeth surgically placed into the jawbone. The two most common types of dental implants are endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants.
Endosteal implants, the most common type, are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. After the bone has healed around the implant, a post is attached to it, which is used to support an artificial tooth or bridge.
Subperiosteal implants are used when the patient doesn’t have enough bone to support an endosteal implant. A metal frame is placed onto the jawbone, and after the bone has healed around the frame, artificial teeth are attached to it.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process typically involves several steps taken over the course of several months. The first step is to consult with a dental specialist to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. During this consultation, the dentist will review your medical history and take X-rays or CT scans to determine the condition of your jawbone and the location of any nerves.
If you are a good candidate for dental implants, the next step is to undergo one of the implant surgeries detailed above.
Cost of Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several factors. The number of implants needed, the type of implant used, and whether a bone graft is needed can impact the overall cost. On average, a single dental implant can range from $2,000 to $5,000 but can cost more depending on the patient’s situation.
Most dental insurance plans do not cover dental implants. While some do offer coverage, it’s important to review the terms of the dental insurance plan carefully as there may be waiting periods, annual maximums, and other limitations.
If you do not have dental insurance that covers dental implants, you may be able to finance the cost of the implants through a dental care credit company. These companies offer financing options with low monthly payments and no interest for a certain period.
Bone Grafting
A bone graft may be necessary if you do not have enough bone to support a dental implant. A bone graft involves taking bone from another part of your body or using synthetic bone material to create a stable base for the implant. Needing this can add several thousand dollars to the cost of a dental implant, so it is important to discuss this with your dental specialist or oral surgeon before proceeding with the implant procedure.
Implant-Supported Bridges
For patients who need to replace multiple teeth, an implant-supported bridge may be an option. With this, an oral surgeon places several implants into the jawbone, using them to support a bridge of artificial teeth. This can be a cost-effective option compared to placing an implant for each missing tooth.
Dental implants are an effective, long-lasting option for replacing missing teeth. DeJesus Dental Group has helped patients evaluate their needs for replacing missing teeth for over 27 years. We have in-house specialists, from implant dentists to periodontists and orthodontists.