What Does a Dental Implant Cost?
It’s a reasonable question, particularly when you’re weighing up your tooth replacement options Dental Implants don’t come cheap. In Australia, Dental Implants cost between $2000 and $7000 for a single implant, but typically, the cost depends on the type of dental implant treatment you require and what the dentist charges in your area. In other words, it’s impossible to put an exact figure on dental implant cost. Carry on reading to find out more about Dental Implants cost in Australia and what’s involved.
Significant factors that influence the cost of dental implant treatment include:
The number of implants
How many teeth do you need to replace? How many implants you require plays a vital role in determining the cost of dental implant treatment. As you might expect, several Dental Implants cost more than a single implant. Generally, implants don’t replace missing teeth on a like-for-like basis, and if you have several adjacent missing teeth, your dentist can fit you with a dental bridge supported by two implants, one at each end to keep the cost down.
Dental implant materials
Dental Implants commonly consist of a titanium ‘tooth root’ and a porcelain crown. Titanium is widely used in dental implant treatment because it’s robust and bonds well with the jaw.
It’s also biocompatible, which means it’s safe in our bodies. However, some people may need modified materials because they have a metal allergy or suffer from sensitivity, which can impact the dental implant cost. Some dentists offer Zirconia Dental Implants as a metal-free alternative – which are equally as safe as titanium but usually cost more.
Tooth extractions
If a patient needs one or more teeth extracted due to decay or damage, this also bumps up the cost of Dental Implants. While a dentist can sometimes place an implant on the same day a tooth is taken out, in most cases, it’s recommended to wait for 3 to 6 months for the jaw to heal fully before going ahead with dental implant treatment.
Bone grafts and sinus lifts
One pre-requisite of dental implant treatment is that a patient has sufficient bone in their jaw to support a dental implant. Unfortunately, if a person has been missing teeth for a while, the jawbone is likely to have shrunk. A patient will need a bone graft to regenerate their bone in this instance. Not only does bone grafting add time to the overall implant procedure, but it also increases the cost of Dental Implants. A person having dental implants in the upper jaw may also require a sinus lift. This surgery increases the height of the sinus chamber to accommodate Dental Implants and avoid damaging the sinuses.
Location of your oral surgeon or dentist
Finally, the expertise and location of the oral surgeon or dentist is another factor that can affect how much Dental Implants cost. Did you know, for example, that dentists in city-centre locations such as Sydney have larger overheads such as rental costs and utilities than other neighbouring suburbs or towns in Australia? This is likely to be reflected in the price of complex procedures such as Dental Implants. It may be more beneficial therefore, to look at dental implant costs in smaller surrounding suburbs where prices may be lower.
Implants can save you money
While the dental implant cost may seem high initially, it’s worth remembering that they have the potential to last for decades. When you compare this to dentures that need regular replacement every 5 to 7 years, implants can save you money in the long run.
So, is there any way of paying less for dental implants?
Here are a few ways to save money (or manage the costs) on dental implant treatment.
Health insurance and payment plans
Unfortunately, Medicare doesn’t usually provide any benefit for dental implants because they’re considered a cosmetic procedure. However, a private insurance plan for patients with a comprehensive extras policy may cover part of the cost of Dental Implants.
Flexible payment plans
Most dentists offer patients flexible payment plans and finance options to help spread the Dental Implants cost over several months or years. Why not get a consultation at your local dental clinic to see how they can help.
Promotions
Promotions can be a great way of saving money on Dental Implants cost, and if you shop around, there may be a dental clinic offering a good deal. Do check the small print, however, to ensure the price includes the cost of the dental crown.
Are you worried about the dental implant cost?
At Beyond Dental Care you can find a dentist that offers consultation where you can discuss all your options. Our team utilises the latest dental technologies to provide patients with long-lasting dental implants that look so natural that people will never know the difference. We also offer SuperCare, enabling patients to access their superannuation as well as other payment plans.
Book a dental consultation near you to see if you are a suitable candidate and get a more accurate price quote. Get in touch today.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
How much do Dental Implants cost?
https://www.finder.com.au/dental-implants
Our Pricing Plans
Science Direct – The Role Of Titanium In Implant Dentistry
Aesthetic Jaw Surgery.com – How Long Does A Bone Graft Take to Heal for Dental Implant Surgery?
Dentally-Org – Sinus Lift Surgery For Teeth Implants
https://www.dentaly.org/us/teeth-implants-cost/sinus-lift
Inflation is back in the news – so should Australians be worried?
Zirconia dental implants – Pros and cons
https://blog.ddslab.com/zirconia-dental-implants-pros-and-cons
Finder.com – Dental Implant Costs and Insurance Cover
https://www.finder.com.au/dental-implants
