If you are missing one or more teeth, you have likely researched the artificial tooth replacement options that are available. In doing so, you’ve probably come across dental implants. These are the most advanced option for tooth replacement and the closest you can get to the look, feel and function of natural teeth.
But it’s no secret that dental implant treatment can be expensive. Keep reading to learn more about the factors that influence the dental implant cost and how it is worth the investment despite the steep price.
Dental Implant Cost: Determining Factors
If you have visited a dental clinic near you for a consultation, your dentist has probably discussed the price of dental implants. It can be pretty expensive, with dental implants cost averaging up to $4,000. But even with this steep cost, the dental implant industry in Australia has been blossoming. And this is because of the outstanding benefits that come with dental implants.
So what determines the cost of dental implants? We’ve narrowed it down to four factors— preparatory procedures, number of implants needed and quality, implant placement procedure, and the replacement tooth.
Preparatory Procedures
When you go to a dentist that offers an implant consultation, the first thing they will do is take the necessary X-rays and scans to check the health of your teeth and gums and the condition of your jawbone. At this time, they will design a treatment plan to address all issues related to dental implant treatment.
Recommendations may include tooth extraction, tooth fillings, gum disease treatment, and professional teeth cleaning. Some patients will also need advanced procedures like a sinus lift, bone graft, and bone augmentation. These are necessary to ensure the long-term success of your dental implants.
Number and Type of Implants
The cost of dental implants is determined per unit needed. So a person requiring multiple implants should expect to pay more than those needing only one tooth replacement.
Also, dental implants can be titanium or zirconia. While both show excellent mechanical properties with a high success rate, zirconia dental implants are superior when it comes to aesthetics because of their lighter colour. This makes it easier to blend with your natural teeth, which is another reason why they are more expensive.
Implant Placement Procedure
Some cases are more complex during the implant placement itself than others. Dental implants placed in the front of the mouth, for example, are generally more expensive because of the additional aesthetic consideration needed to make them look as lifelike as possible.
Also, during the dental implant treatment, patients differ in the type of sedation they want. Some already feel comfortable with local anaesthetics, while others prefer to be sedated to keep them relaxed throughout the procedure. At Carindale Family Dentistry, we also offer Stem Cell Dentistry. This modern technique uses your stem cells to accelerate bone regeneration and fusion of your bone to the dental implant.
Replacement Tooth
Finally, the dental implant treatment will be completed with the placement of the artificial tooth. For a single-unit implant, a dental crown is needed. There is also a stark difference in the cost depending on the material used for the crown. For instance, porcelain fused to metal is the cheapest material, while porcelain and gold dental implants cost more.
And for those with a series of missing teeth, a bridge or dentures will be recommended. Likewise, there are differences in the material for both artificial tooth replacement options, which your dentist should discuss.
Dental Implant Cost: The Bottomline
There is no one-price-fits-all when it comes to the cost of dental implants. The entire implant process requires personalised treatment to meet a patient’s individual needs. And any additional fees will be passed on to the patient.
A good implant dentist will walk you through your entire treatment plan, explain why certain steps are needed, and help you understand the cost. The results can be life-changing. And with good maintenance, you can enjoy your dental implants for many years and potentially a lifetime.
Invest In Your Smile With Dental Implants
To learn more about the dental implant cost, get a consultation at your local dentist. At Carindale Family Dentist, our patients are our priority. We have a highly-skilled dental team with vast experience in dental implants, so you can trust that we will make your investment in your smile worthwhile. Your dental implant treatment will be customised to put a beautiful and healthy smile on your face for a very long time.
Find out about our dental implant treatment and the advanced techniques we utilise in our practice. Call us today to schedule your appointment.
MILLENNIUM Centre Shop (Carindale): (07) 3113 9138
METROPOL 2 Centre (Mt. Gravatt East): (07) 3130 0238
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Healthline.com – 3 Options for Replacing Missing Teeth
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/missing-teeth
Smile.com – Dental Implant Guide: Costs, Process, Risks & More
https://www.smile.com.au/dental-treatments/implants#:~:text=Typically%20in%20Australia%2C%20the%20price,up%20to%20%245%2C514%20per%20tooth.
Idataresearch.com – Dental Implants Market Size, Share & COVID19 Impact Analysis | Australia | 2021-2027
https://idataresearch.com/product/dental-implants-market-australia/
Healthline.com – Everything to Know About a Sinus Lift
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/sinus-lift
Pubmed – Bone Augmentation in Implant Dentistry
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19885448/
Pubmed – Zirconium dioxide implants as an alternative to titanium: A systematic review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33981400/
Pubmed – Small blood stem cells for enhancing early osseointegration formation on dental implants: a human phase I safety study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34215319/
Austalian Dental Association – Queensland
https://www.adaq.org.au/