Finding suitable solutions to broken or missing teeth can seem far-fetched in terms of price, but dental implants are more affordable now than ever and with higher success rates. According to the CDC, the average American will have lost close to 12 teeth by age 50, which is a concern for many people. Dental implants aren’t just a solution to fix imperfections in someone’s smile or simply replace partially missing or completely missing teeth; they can completely change the quality of life. By positively affecting diet, preventing bone loss, and even preventing premature aging, Americans are wondering just how much dental implants would cost them.
Why Dental Implants Are Popular
For those that might be missing a tooth or a few teeth, dental implants have become a sought out option and have only gained popularity since the first implant installation in 1965.
Now, dental implant technology has progressed in both functionality, lifespan, and, yes, cost. With recent innovations, dental implants now come with antibacterial coating, computers can guide the surgery, and thanks to digital impression technology, strategic planning for dental implants allow them to fit better and look more natural.
These are only a few of the features that lead to their 95% success rate, although lower jaw implant success rates do fall to the 90% mark, which is still impressive. The main stints of popularity that consumers will mention are the ways they can enhance your life. A few ways this happens are:
- Significant improvements in confidence
- The implants function like natural teeth
- Prevention of gum disease
- Reduces the chances of dental drift
- They grow with the jaw bone and increase comfort
Overall, the price for dental implants, given their lifespan, and the benefits they offer to both your oral health and mental well-being, make them more popular.
Are They Worth It Financially?
Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth and are replacements for permanent teeth. This alone makes them worth the investment. The procedure is also painless, although it may not seem like it would be, considering that the implant must be permanently secured to the jaw bone.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
A single implant can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000, although they can start at $1,500. While this may seem like a large sum, consider that it’s not often that every tooth will be replaced although there is no minimum number of implants you can get. Most of the time, the average person will get anywhere from two to potentially six implants.
Also, be aware that the implant cost is separate from procedural-related fees. This means to consider the cost of the crown, the preop and postop care, and the tooth extraction will also have a fee.
Overall, an implant could cost upward of $4,800 with everything included. The good news is that many dental offices offer payment plans suited to what is needed, and using an insurance policy is another option to bring that price down. With insurance policies, dental implants may not be covered under the more basic or base policies. Most times, when an insurance policy covers it, expect a potential 50% coverage of the procedure.
Wondering How Long They Last?
Remember that while our “permanent” teeth are technically permanent and meant to be so, that tooth loss with age does occur. While total tooth loss or even partial loss of teeth is more common in those over the age of 50, it can happen at any age if influenced by certain lifestyle factors and the status of oral care. Accidents also happen, and people may lose a tooth or teeth and require implants. If you are in a situation where dental implants are the most suitable option, you will be happy to know that they can be a permanent solution to any permanent teeth you may lose.
The screw within the actual implant can last for a lifetime, although this is highly dependent on whether a person stays up to date with their bi-annual dental visits. As for the crown of the implant, they have a life expectancy of between 10 and 15 years. After that time, a replacement will be needed, but the more dental care is kept up with, the longer they will last. The length of time they last are one of the primary reasons for their popularity and justification in cost, making dental implants even more worth it for those needing them.
A Solution That’s Worth It and Surprisingly Affordable
Dental implants are now a well-known solution to fixing imperfections in a smile, replacing a missing tooth or more than one, and are a great way to regain the confidence that a smile can give. With payment options from the dentist, assistance through insurance, and the big picture of how oral health will be enhanced, dental implants might be the perfect solution, and the price and affordability potential might have been surprising. To get the best cost value, consult with a dentist, and don’t be afraid to shop around to compare prices.
Byline: Jordan Jennings, MHA
Jordan Jennings is a Healthcare Strategy Consultant and an EMT with an MS in Healthcare Administration and Management. She has expertise in strategic healthcare, clinical operations, emergency medical response services, and EHR training for dental and ambulatory clinic settings.