Missing Teeth? Dental implants may be an option.
A dental implant is a procedure whereby a metal fixture is placed into the jawbone (this is usually a screw), and this implant acts as a support or anchor for a new false tooth, or set of teeth.
Quite a straightforward concept, but not a straightforward form of cosmetic dental surgery.
Dental implants are used to replace teeth when they are badly damaged, and have no hope of survival. Over time, the implant or screw, fuses with the jaw bone and remains a strong support for the fake teeth (a process known as osseointegration).
There is the option to have one, or multiple dental implants in order to support a single or multiple teeth - which will all depend on your individual situation.
A very common question asked by patients is: “what is the cost of dental implants?” and "what are my options for dental implants?"
This blog will answer all of your questions regarding dental implants and associated cost, and help you in making the right choice when it comes to this expensive procedure.
Types Of Dental Implants
Most dental implants today are made from titanium, which is a special metal used very often in surgical applications. Titanium has the ability to avoid corrosion, is lightweight and is non-magnetic, but the largest benefit is that the human body does not reject titanium as a foreign object.
This means when a dental implant is placed in the bone, the bone grows around the implant, which is a process called Osseointegration.
There are a few different options when it comes to dental implants, and the most suitable implant for you depends on your individual case:
Endosseous Implants
These implants are placed within the bone and are typically shaped like a screw or cylinder. This type of implant is the most popular option however the bone must have enough depth and width for it to be successful.
Subperiosteal Implant
These dental implants are placed on top of the bone, but underneath the gum line. They consist of a metal frame, and are a great alternative if the patient does not have deep enough bone.
Transosteal Implant
Consisting of a metal pin or a U-shaped frame, this implant passes through the jawbone and the gum tissue, into the mouth.
Dental Implants Cost
The cost of dental implants will vary due to a number of factors. The following issues should be kept in mind when searching for dental implants prices:
#1 - The number of dental implants required – Do you need implants to support one tooth, or multiple teeth?
#2 - Do you need work to be done before the dental implant procedure can commence? (i.e. tooth extraction) - Often you'll require tooth extraction, and in some cases, a lack of jawbone will require a bone graft. These extra procedures, of course, cost money!
#3 - Are you being quoted for BOTH parts of the implant? i.e. both the titanium anchor AND the porcelain tooth which is screwed into the anchor?
#4 - The complexity of the individuals situation – everyone is different, and some patients will require more or less work, such as complex vs simple bone grafting, which will add to the cost.
Prices Of Dental Implants
Dental Implants are an expensive procedure, and hunting around for cheap dental implants is not recommended: it’s a very complicated process only to be performed by dentists and specialists with extensive training, and not something you'd want to risk.
One way to save a little money is to ensure you are covered by a reputable private health insurance provider, however is most cases, dental implants are not covered by dental insurance in Australia as its considered cosmetic dentistry.
Once you have determined the number of dental implants you require it becomes easier to get an idea of the costs involved for your individual case.
Procedure
Straight forward single dental implant will cost around $5000 - $5500
A more complicated single dental implant will cost around $5500 - $6500
'All-on-4' dental implant procedure is about $20 000 - $30 000