The Cost of Tooth Implants

Can discount dental implants be found?


The cost of tooth implants scares many away. They are pricey, but when compared to the cost of a traditional dental bridge may still be an affordable option.



cost of tooth implants Sometimes teeth implants are done in two stages by two different dentists. A periodontist or oral surgeon surgically places the implant and a dentist finishes the job by placing a crown on the implant.

Prices vary, but most implants cost around $3000 per tooth....Ouch! In spite of the cost of tooth implants, there are some reasons to consider a dental implant and also some scenarios that make a dental bridge a better choice.

A bridge that replaces one tooth involves 3 teeth and is also called a 3 unit bridge. The three units being, one replacement tooth and two adjacent teeth. Bridges can be more than three units if more than one tooth is missing. In most cases, three unit bridges cost almost the same as one implant.

Dental implant insurance coverage

Does my insurance cover it?

Yes and no. Most insurance plans cover the crown that is placed on the implant just like they would cover any other crown. Depending on your plan, 50-80% of the crown may be paid for. The surgical placement of the implant is not normally paid for by dental insurance plans.

Why pay high tooth implant cost?

If you have dental insurance, your out of pocket expense for an implant will be higher than it would for a bridge. If you don't have dental insurance, the cost will be about the same.

Implants have advantages over other ways of replacing teeth. Here are a few...

Dental tooth implants:

  • Are less invasive
  • -if you only need to replace one tooth, an implant is less invasive than a bridge. A traditional bridge requires that the two adjacent teeth be crowned. A bridge does exactly what it says...bridges the gap where there once was a tooth. Bridges are a good way to replace a tooth except that it's kind of a shame to put crowns on two teeth just because one tooth is missing. A bridge is one solid piece that is harder to keep clean and over time puts additional chewing stress on the anchor teeth.

    Here’s where the choice is not so obvious.... If the adjacent teeth are healthy, an implant is a better choice. If the adjacent teeth have very large fillings and will eventually need crowns anyway, a bridge may be a better and more cost effective choice. Why spend $3000 on an implant and in a year or two spend another $1000-$2000 on crowns when you could do it all at once for $3000?

  • Last longer
  • - Implants can last a lifetime if properly placed and well maintained. Because they are made of metal, it's impossible to get a cavity on an implant:) But they are still susceptible to gum disease.

    Because of their size and shape, implants require extra attention to keep them gum disease free.

    Bridges can last a long time as well but can still get a cavity on either of the adjacent teeth. Small cavities can be repaired, but a large cavity on either tooth means you have to replace the entire bridge...hate it when that happens! Bridges also require extra cleaning to prevent gum disease.

  • Prevent bone resorption
  • - When teeth are removed, the jaw bone slowly resorbs or shrinks. When a person loses more than one tooth, the jaw gets narrower and smaller, making partial or full dentures difficult to wear.

    If an implant is placed, the bone stays and doesn't shrink away.

Discount dental implants?

I love a bargain as much as anyone, but some things are too important to cut corners. If you choose a lower priced implant dentist, be sure to thoroughly check references and reviews.

The cost of tooth implants should not be the only deciding factor.

You can’t be too careful when choosing an implant dentist. Your dentist can help you make this decision.

Some implant dentists offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, or cash...It never hurts to ask.

cost of tooth implants

Is the cost of tooth implants worth it?

In my opinion, yes! It's hard to talk or eat when you are missing teeth and implants are so much better than dentures.

Teeth implants are the best way to restore the function of natural teeth and they look beautiful too.

Can't put a price tag on that:)

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