So, your dentist told you that you need dental implants. One of the first questions that likely pops into your mind is “why are dental implants so expensive?”
There’s a lot of factors that can go into determining the costs of dental implants. The key here is to understand what those factors are, and how you can potentially drive the costs down.
Why Are Dental Implants So Expensive?
Factors that makes dental implants expensive are the following:
- Your dentists’ fees
- The parts needed for your implants
- The different materials your dentist will use
- The bone grafting procedure
- Your insurance coverage (Original Medicare doesn’t cover dental implants, but some Medicare Advantage plans do)
- The temporary tooth you will need while you wait
- Where the implant parts come from
- Custom vs. stock abutments
- The expertise and experience of your dentists
Other Factors Affecting the Cost
When you’re paying for dental implants, you’re paying for a bunch of different things. Aside from the factors we have mentioned above, you’re also playing for the post. The post is the small screw that’s placed within your jawbone through surgery. This post will act as the new tooth’s root.
You’re also paying for the abutment part which connects the post and the crown. The crown is the new synthetic tooth. Before you get implants, it’s a good idea to ask your dentist if all of these parts are included in the fee. Not every dentist will perform the implant, or be responsible for each part so it’s always better to ask before you agree.
Another cost factor mentioned was bone grafting. Some people need to get bone grafting procedures because they do not have sufficient bone structure that will support the post. Usually, your dentist will ask you to take X-Ray more exams to determine if you need a bone graft. It’s a good idea to ask your dentist if the bone graft is included in the overall fee of your dental implants.
Questions to Ask Your Implant Dentist
Speaking of questions you need to ask your implant dentist, you should also ask if your dentist will perform the dental implant procedure. Ask if they will place the dental implant post themselves, or if a specialist is required to do this step.
A temporary tooth may also drive your cost up. Temporary teeth or teeth are an option because it can take up to six months for your implant post to fuse in with the surrounding bone. This choice is all up to you. You can choose from a retainer, a dental flipper or a temporary bridge. Ask your dentist for options, and how much more it will cost.
Ways To Save on Implants
One great option to potentially save down on costs is by asking your insurance provider if they cover dental implants. This will drive down your costs significantly, and will help you save a lot of money. If your policy covers dental implants, you can cut the costs down by 50% to 70%. Ask your insurance provider if they cover dental implants, and what your expected out-of-pocket costs will be.
If you do not have an insurance plan out of the moment, it’s always an option to ask your dentist about their payment options, or if they have an in-house membership plan.
For more ideas on how to save on dental implants, check out this article.
While dental implants may seem expensive, they are definitely worth the price. They can help save you more money in the long-term. And they can save you money by avoiding restorations in the future.