If some of your teeth have been having issues, such as decay, you may wonder what options you have. Dental implants are an excellent way to replace a dead tooth and to save the rest of your mouth.
But you may wonder, why are dental implants so expensive? Keep reading to find out.
The Dental Implant Process
Part of why dental implants are so expensive is that they have a lengthy process. You don’t just walk into your dentist’s office and walk out with new teeth. First, you’ll need to have a comprehensive dental exam.
Pre-Implant Process
Your dentist will take X-rays and perhaps 3D images of your mouth. They can use those images to determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants. The dentist may also discuss your medical history, such as prescription and over-the-counter drugs you take.
If you have a heart condition, your dentist may give you antibiotics before the implant process to keep you from getting an infection.
Then, your dentist will discuss your treatment plan, which can include what teeth to replace. The plan may also cover how to maintain your remaining teeth and to protect your jaw.
Implant Process
You will then have multiple outpatient procedures, and you will typically receive an anesthetic to keep from feeling any pain. The first step involves removing your damaged teeth. You may also need a bone graft if your jawbone is thin or weak.
Your dentist may take bone from elsewhere in your body, or they may use a synthetic material to make your jaw strong. After your jaw is ready, your dentist will drill a hole in the bone so that they can place the post for your implant.
At this point, you may have to wait weeks or months for the bone to grow around the implant. The time is necessary for the post to form a solid base for your new tooth.
Next, your dentist will place the abutment, which goes on top of the implant and can help place the crown. Finally, you will be ready for your dentist to place your artificial teeth. You will need to get molds of your mouth to ensure the teeth fit perfectly.
Also, you can choose between fixed or replaceable implants. Fixed implants are like regular teeth, but you can remove replaceable implants to facilitate cleaning. Either type is fine, so consider what you want. Then, you can get your new implants.
Why Do Dental Implants Cost So Much?
Dental Implants cost a lot of money for a few reasons. For one, your implants will be custom made to fit your teeth and mouth. You may need multiple molds taken of your mouth during the process, and that all costs money.
The custom teeth make it so that no two dental implant procedures are the same. Someone may need more bone grafting, while someone else has a perfect jaw.
Dental implants also cost a lot because they require multiple steps. You have to have your initial exam, remove your teeth, place the implant, and place the teeth. Each of those typically requires a different visit.
However, dental implants do last a long time, and they can be life-long. So while they are expensive up front, you can use the new teeth for many years.
How to Save Money on Treatment
While dental implants are expensive, you can save money on the procedure. One option is to go to your local dental school.
As dental students finish their training, they need to practice performing the procedure. And because they aren’t full dentists, you can pay less for the same service.
If your local dental school is still somewhat expensive, you can shop around. Compare a few different dentists and how much they charge for implants. You may find a good dentist whose procedure is affordable.
Another thing to consider is to join a discount dental plan. These plans have membership fees, but you can save up to 60 percent off certain dental procedures. However, you may need to choose a dentist in the plan’s network.
You can also travel to save money on your implants. If you live in a big city, consider traveling somewhere with a lower cost of living. And if you still can’t afford it, you can look at getting dental implants abroad.
For some, dental implants can be a life-changer. But why are dental implants so expensive? It’s a unique procedure with a lot of steps. But that doesn’t mean the high cost isn’t worth it for a mouth of healthy, good looking teeth.