Price is an important factor in making a decision about tooth replacement. So much so that it’s one of the most common questions people have when they’re considering getting dental implants. But how much does a tooth implant cost? In reality, there are many variables that influence the price you’ll ultimately pay. Getting a dental implant placed isn’t like buying something from a store. The procedure to get a dental implant will depend largely on your current oral health and preferences.
Cost of Dental Implants
In the US, the average cost of a single tooth dental implant is approximately $4250. A single tooth implant consists of the implant post, abutment and crown. When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Stone will be able to tell you exactly what you can expect to pay for the implant itself, as this isn’t a cost that differs from one patient to another.
But the cost of the implant doesn’t include the cost of the placement procedures. The largest fluctuation in cost for getting dental implants placed has nothing to do with the implant post, abutment and tooth crown, but with the procedures you’ll need to undergo to get the implant placed.
However, there are some factors that can influence the price of your dental implant itself, such as the quality of the implant, the manufacturer and what tooth is being replaced.
Dental Implant Procedure: Cost Variables
The cost to get a dental implant will depend on the cost of the procedures to place the implant. There are a number of standard and additional procedures that might be necessary before the implant can be placed. The less additional procedures you need to prepare your jaw for the implant, the less the implant will cost you. Some of the procedures that can add to the expense of a dental implant include:
- CT scans and X-rays
- Bone grafting
- Tooth extractions
- Implant surgery
While everyone getting a dental implant will have to undergo implant surgery and get at least some X-rays of CT scans, not every patient will need bone grafting or tooth extractions.
The price of tooth extractions can also vary depending on whether you get a simple tooth extraction or a surgical tooth extraction. Whereas the price of bone grafting and surgery can also vary depending on the complexity of the procedure.
All in all, the best way to get an accurate estimate of what the procedure will cost you from start to finish, is to have a consultation with Dr. Stone. After properly examining you, your dental implant specialist will be able to give you an accurate estimate of what a tooth implant would cost you specifically.
You might find varying prices as you do your research. There are many factors that contribute to the cost of a tooth implant:
- The skill and experience of the dentist you’re seeing. Ask about whether or not a dentist has special qualifications when it comes to placing dental implants. Dentists who are specialists, like prosthodontists and dental surgeons, often charge higher rates. Some dentists do short courses on placing dental implants, but this isn’t the same as having a dental specialty.
- The location of a dental practice. Dentists who practice in large cities pay more in rent and other expenses to keep their practice running, which usually makes dental care in large cities somewhat more expensive than in small towns. Unfortunately, it’s a well-known fact that living in the city is more expensive. Almost everything costs more, including health care.
- Skill and experience of practice staff. If a dental practice employs staff members who are more skilled and experienced, your dental care might cost more. But you’re likely to also have a better overall experience with the practice, so at least you get what you pay for.
Keep in mind, however, that the most highly skilled medical professionals often prefer to practice in cities rather than small towns, so be sure to consider skill and experience when choosing your prosthodontist.
In the end, you should choose your prosthodontist primarily based on their experience and success rate rather than only considering the cost of your dental implants. While cost is certainly an important consideration, your quality of life after getting implants will be influenced by the success of the procedure, so choosing a dentist that cares about your best interests should be at least as important as cost when making your choice.
