As more and more people discover how much dental implants can revolutionise their life, they are becoming increasingly popular. Not only do these implants look and feel just like natural teeth, but they also require little to no additional maintenance compared to tooth-bonded bridges or dentures. Plus, because of the longer lifespan of dental implants, you can be assured that your smile will last for years to come.
Are you curious about what a dental implant costs? The cost of dental implants varies, and in this article, we’ll illuminate all key elements that can affect the final expense. To gain insights into your possible expenses, read ahead.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants offer a dependable and secure solution to replace missing teeth without risking bone loss in the jaw. They are made of three parts -the post, the abutment, and the crown- all of which work together seamlessly for an effective result.
Post
The post, or fixture, is an artificial screw placed directly into the gum. Out of all materials used for implants, titanium has proven to be the most reliable and effective due to its unique ability to integrate with human tissue without causing any complications.
Abutment
By forming a secure connection, the abutment links the implant post to the prosthetic tooth for beneficial and durable results.
Prosthesis/ dental crown
Tooth implants are designed to accommodate prostheses, or artificial teeth, which can be crafted from resilient materials such as porcelain and ceramic. These false teeth are then affixed with strong dental cement for secure placement.
Types of dental implants
Endosteal implants
An endosteal implant acts as an artificial root, secured directly in your jawbone for a secure and natural feeling tooth replacement.
Subperiosteal implants
Subperiosteal implants are positioned on top of the bone and beneath the gums instead of being inserted into the jawbone.
Implant-supported bridge
An implant-supported bridge is an ideal way to replace multiple missing teeth. Not only will it improve your ability to speak and chew, but it also prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of alignment. With this procedure, you get a secure solution that can restore both form and function to your smile.
Single dental implant
When you’re only missing a single tooth, opting for a dental implant is your best bet. Not only will it give you an attractive smile but also improve the way you talk and bite food.
All-on-4 dental implants/ Full mouth dental implants
All-on-4 implants are an ideal choice if you’re looking to replace multiple teeth and boost your smile. This can be applied to either or both of the lower and upper jaw arches, enabling a secure restoration that can be easily removable for cleaning or regular dental appointments—a solution that could potentially last forever!
What are the factors that affect the cost of dental implants?
Numerous elements contribute to the cost of implants, and below we’ll investigate some of these factors.
The number of teeth being replaced -If you are looking to replace multiple missing teeth, it is far more economical than replacing them individually. A denture or bridge will give your smile a makeover, and the restoration can be supported by just a few posts–which actually keeps the cost lower! The number of teeth being replaced decides its price; however, no matter what size dental replacement you get, you’ll save money compared to if each tooth had been replaced separately.
The surgeon’s expertise – Price tends to be an accurate indicator of a surgeon’s experience and expertise.
The patient’s dental health – For those who have suffered from dental infections, getting a successful implant may be difficult. Gum disease, jaw infections, and abscesses can all interfere with the success of an implant procedure. Although it is possible to place an implant in these circumstances, patients must understand that earlier infection could lead to implant failure – resulting in increased costs for replacements.
The quality of dental implant materials – Patients may opt for titanium dental implants, as they are biocompatible and cause no adverse reactions in the jawbone. However, some patients prefer different materials if they have metal allergies or sensitivity – which could incidentally affect the cost of their implant. If a natural-looking appearance is preferred, ceramic implants come second to titanium; yet zirconia reigns supreme since it perfectly matches the colour of your other teeth.
Other elements X-rays and CT scans are essential to guarantee that nerve damage is avoided, but this comes at a cost. If there isn’t enough bone available, you will have to cover the costs associated with undergoing a bone graft; furthermore, if your tooth has been damaged or broken in any way, it may need to be extracted before treatment can start – which incurs additional expenses.
Dental Implant procedure
- Detailed dental examination. To create an accurate representation of your teeth and jaw, your dentist will utilise both dental X-rays as well as sophisticated 3D imaging technology.
- Evaluation of your medical history. It is always important to inform your dentist about any medical conditions, medications, vitamins or supplements that you are taking before a dental appointment. By doing so, the dentist can provide the best possible care for you and help ensure maximum safety during treatment.
- Dental implant treatment plan. When crafting your individualised treatment plan, our dentist carefully considers several components, such as the condition of your jawbone and how many teeth need to be replaced. Regarding anaesthesia for this surgery, we advocate general anaesthesia, intravenous (IV) sedation, or local anaesthesia. With these options at hand and a personalised care strategy tailored just for you in mind -it’s guaranteed that you will have the best experience possible!
When is bone grafting required?
If your jawbone is not strong or thick enough, you may need a bone grafting procedure prior to receiving dental implants. When we chew our food, immense pressure is placed on the bones; if they cannot carry the stress of an implant, there’s a higher chance of unsuccessful surgery. Thus, with a bone graft as its base for reinforcement, an implant can be securely installed.
Placing the implant post
As part of the surgical procedure, your dentist will make an incision in your gums to expose the jaw bone and create a small hole where they can insert the dental implant post. The implant is carefully set into place deep within the bone, acting as a replacement root for your tooth. With this secure foundation in place, you’ll be able to enjoy restored oral health and comfort with confidence!
If you want your smile to look its best, a temporary partial denture is a perfect solution for closing any gaps left from an extracted tooth. It’s a great way of improving aesthetics while waiting for permanent dental implants to be put in place.
Waiting for bone growth
Osseointegration is the process of combining a tooth implant post with your jawbone, an essential step for providing it with the same sturdy base as natural teeth. Upon insertion of the implant post into your jawbone by a dentist, both surfaces gradually bind together so that you can enjoy lasting results.
Placing the abutment
After osseointegration is accomplished, the dentist has to do a follow-up procedure that requires only local anaesthesia and can usually be done in one outpatient visit. The steps of this involve making a small cut so they can insert an abutment into the implant. Once it’s placed, they will close up the gum tissue around it-allowing a few weeks for healing before any further treatment is possible. Therefore, with all these aspects considered, you won’t have your perfect smile quite yet but getting there.
Placing the artificial tooth
After the gums have healed, the dentist will create detailed impressions of your mouth and remaining teeth to carefully craft a crown that looks just like a natural tooth. Once your jawbone is strong enough to support it, this new dental implant can be securely placed in your smile.
Dental implant cost
You will be astonished to uncover that receiving dental implants in Australia can be quite economical. Starting at just $3,000 for only one implant and typically no more than an additional $6,000 for the procedures of a bone graft or sinus lift, it is not hard to see why many people are opting for this life-changing procedure. However, each case is distinctive, and your dentist is able to provide you with the exact cost according to your individual requirements.
What are the advantages of having dental implants?
Dental implants are designed to look just like your natural teeth
Dental implants are designed to look natural by matching the colour and shape of your existing teeth.
Dental implants make eating and speaking much easier for you
If you lack teeth, it can greatly impair your ability to eat and communicate correctly. Dental implants are the ideal remedy for this dilemma, as they look and operate just like real teeth!
Dental implants do not get cavities
Regularly caring for artificial teeth is just as important as that of natural teeth, but with one major benefit – they will never decay.
Dental implants protect your other teeth from shifting
If left vacant, those gaps from missing teeth can cause your other teeth to slowly move out of alignment. This not only affects the aesthetic value of your smile but also compromises its chewing efficiency. Tooth implants provide a seamless solution by filling in these spaces and preventing adjacent teeth from shifting.
Dental implants don’t require a lot of upkeep
When it comes to dental prosthetics, you usually have to buy extra products and figure out how to keep them clean. That’s not the case with dental implants – they don’t require any special care! To maintain your artificial teeth, just take care of them as if they were natural teeth: brush twice daily and floss every day. Simple yet effective – that’s why so many people choose this permanent solution for replacing missing or damaged teeth.
Dental implants last a lifetime
Investing in dental implants is an investment that will last a lifetime. With the right care, you can reap its benefits for many years to come – far longer than dentures and bridges, which need replacing eventually.
Are you suitable for dental implants?
No matter your age or background, implant-based treatment can drastically improve everyone’s lives. However, it is essential to bear in mind that each individual case is distinct and requires careful consideration. Factors like general health conditions, any medications you take, smoking habits, the state of your mouth and teeth, as well as the available bone at the planned insertion site are all crucial components for successful implant dentistry outcomes.
To ensure the success of dental implants, it is essential to carefully assess your individual needs. With proper evaluation and consideration, you can rest assured that this complex treatment will be tailored to best suit your unique situation.
Are dental implants painful?
Dental implant surgery is minimally uncomfortable and can be eased with sedation and local anaesthesia. After the process, you may experience some mild soreness or swelling that typically disappears in a few days if cared for correctly. Your dentist will usually prescribe medications to diminish any post-treatment pain too!
Rediscover your smile with the cost-effective and exceptional dental implants at My Local Dentists
Our expert and inviting dental team at My Local Dentists are here to provide you with the most advanced implant technologies at competitive prices. We will develop a personalised care plan tailored to your specific needs so that you get only the finest treatment available! Get in touch today for an appointment.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Everything to know about a dental implant procedure
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/dental-implant-procedure
Dental Implant surgery
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622