What Are Dental Implants? Everything You Should Know

People can lose teeth for various reasons, including infection, decay, trauma, and fractures. One way to replace a missing tooth — or several missing teeth — is dental implants. This option has several advantages over standard partial or full dentures, primarily that implants feel and function more like natural teeth and reduce the bone loss associated with traditional dentures. 

But, while dental implants are a high-quality and typically long-lasting solution, they are very expensive. And, since a dental implant procedure is often considered cosmetic, it’s typically not covered by dental insurance.  

How much do dental implants cost?  

There are a lot of variables involved in dental implant treatments, so the total cost of the procedure varies widely. Typically, the total cost for a single dental implant is $3,100 to $5,800* – that includes the implant itself, a crown to replace the tooth, and the abutment that attaches the crown to the implant. You may also need associated treatments such as extraction of a partially broken tooth, X-rays, or a bone graft/sinus lift to help ensure the implant’s stability.  

If you need multiple teeth replaced, and they are all in close proximity, you may be able to save some money by getting a smaller number of dental implants to secure a partial bridge or dentures. For example, you might only need 4-6 implants to support a full denture. This is especially helpful for lower dentures, which are notoriously more difficult to keep in place than uppers. The average cost for this is $6,000 to $10,000*. 

Dental implants can be more affordable when you join a dental savings plan, a trusted alternative to dental insurance. Keep reading to learn more about dental implants and how a dental savings plan can help mitigate the cost of this procedure.  

What are my dental implant options? 

A single implant  

A single implant — also known as an endosteal implant — consists of the implant itself, the abutment, and the crown. First, the dental implant is fused into your jaw under the gumline. Then, a device called the abutment is placed on top of the dental implant. Finally, a dental crown —the replacement tooth — is connected to the abutment, completing the dental implant. This process is typically used when you have only one tooth that needs to be replaced.  

A dental bridge  

When you have several missing teeth next to each other, your best option might be a dental bridge. A dental bridge usually comprises two crowns on either side of the gap — i.e., abutment teeth — with an artificial tooth or teeth in between. The two crowns are fused to dental implants, while the teeth missing in between aren’t connected to dental implants. Once the bridge is complete, it can help restore your bite, maintain the shape of your face, and prevent your remaining teeth from drifting out of place.  

An implant-supported denture (also known as snap-on dentures) 

If you’re missing most of your top or lower teeth, you may want to consider implant-supported dentures. Traditional dentures are removable, meaning they can slip, slide, and fall out of your mouth. To fix this problem, your dentist can create dentures that snap into or are affixed to dental implants.  

The Benefits and Risks of Dental Implants  

Benefits  

• Restores bite force  
• Improves cosmetic appearance  
• Maintains the shape of your face  
• Helps keep adjacent teeth stable  
• Helps prevent your jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss  
• Supports the health of your surrounding bone and gums  

Risks  

• Implants to replace your top teeth can penetrate into the sinus, potentially causing discomfort or infection  
• Injury during surgery, such as a fracture of the surrounding jawbone  
• A risk of infection if you don’t keep your incisions clean as they heal  
• Damage to the surrounding teeth or blood vessels during the dental implant surgery  
• Gum recession around the implant, which can lead to inflammation and pain  
• Implant failure or rejection 

It is always best to consult your dentist regarding possible risks.  

Dental savings plans can reduce dental implant costs 

Dental savings plans are a trusted alternative to dental insurance that activate quickly (within 72 hours of purchase) and do not have annual limits on how much you can save. You can even save on procedures to treat long standing dental problems. 

Explore your savings options at DentalPlans.com, the largest dental plan marketplace, with over 25 plans from the most trusted brands in healthcare, accepted by over 70% of U.S. dentists. Our team of experts can help you find the plan that can save you the most on dental implants and more – call us today at 1-833-735-0399.  

Curious how much you can save on implants with a dental savings plan? Use the calculator below.