For many people, dental implants are the best option for replacing damaged or missing teeth. But, you may need to ensure you are seated when your dentist tells you the cost of this gold standard tooth replacement.
What is the cost of a tooth implant?
Now here’s the thing …
No two dental implant procedures are the same, which is why it’s impossible to give a straightforward answer to dental implant cost.
Dental implant procedures are complex, with multiple steps involved and different costs for each step.
The elements that go into the final cost of a tooth implant or implants are:
- A comprehensive dental examination including x-rays and 3D scans
- Extraction of problematic teeth, when necessary
- Placement of the dental implant(s)
- Placement of the abutment
- Fabrication of the dental crown
- Placement of the crown
The cost of each element depends on the dental clinic. Some dental surgeries may offer a free CT scan (the CT scans helps determine whether implants are a suitable treatment for you) at the beginning of the dental implants process as an incentive. However, you can expect to pay around $230 for the service.
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, and this is reflected in their cost. Generally speaking, from start to finish, the total cost per tooth runs between $3,000 to $5,500, while a person looking for a mouthful of dental implants can expect to pay between $21,957 and $41,639.
We’ve already mentioned that there is no regular fee because each implant case is different. Unlike a single service such as a tooth filling, implant fees are assessed by the type and complexity of the case.
In other words, the final price is affected by variables such as a CT scan in the preliminary examination or whether you need a sinus lift or a bone graft – and what type of graft.
Additional factors that affect the dental implant cost include the location of your dental clinic. A dental clinic in an expensive city such as Sydney will pay more for their rental and utilities, and consequently, the cost of a tooth implant may be higher than in a smaller suburb.
To find the exact cost of dental implants, you need to ask your dentist.
Let’s look at dental implant options and costs in more detail.
Single-tooth implant cost
Contrary to a popular misconception, you can’t just go and buy a dental implant. The implant is the titanium post that screws into your jawbone. As well as the implant, a patient requires an abutment (the component that attaches the crown to the implant) and a dental crown. All of these items are priced up separately.
Many patients require a bone graft to increase the density of their bone to create a more stable foundation for dental implants. Others may need a sinus lift to allow more space for the implant and reduce the risk of the implant damaging the sinus cavity. These procedures will add to the dental implant cost.
According to the National Dental Fee Survey for 2020, a dental implant in Australia can set you back up to $5,514 per tooth. If you require a sinus lift or a bone graft, a single dental implant can cost as much as $11,500.
Multiple tooth implant cost
If you’re replacing several missing teeth, and they are all next to each other, the good news is that you have more implant options, and consequently, more pricing choices.
For example, if you’re looking to fill a tooth gap left by 3 or 4 neighbouring teeth, there’s no need to replace every tooth with an implant. Instead, your dentist is likely to recommend a dental bridge secured by two dental implants, lowering the overall cost. Nevertheless, you can expect to pay around $4540 for a two-tooth cantilever dental implant bridge.
Full mouth implant cost
The most expensive option would be to replace each missing tooth, but the cost would be exorbitant, although it would enable the dentist to preserve some existing teeth if they were healthy enough.
A cheaper option is implant-retained dentures, where an arch of false teeth replaces all lower or upper teeth the same as removable dentures. The arch is anchored by four to six implants in both the upper and lower jaw and is commonly referred to as the All-on-Four procedure. The cost ranges from $23,000 to $27,000 per fixed arch.
The additional cost of dental implants
Make sure you and your dentist discuss the dental implant cost and that you understand it. It’s rare for there to be any hidden costs, and most dentists will provide the cost upfront in a detailed treatment plan.
If you’re seeing specialists such as an oral surgeon and a dentist, be sure to consider two separate sets of fees.
The only additional expense you may incur are prescription or over the counter medications to ease the pain after dental implant surgery or a course of antibiotics should your dentist think it is necessary.
Because the dental implant procedure is a lengthy business, most dentists offer a variety of payment plans and sometimes 0% finance to make the cost of a tooth implant more affordable for everyone.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Generally, dental implants are not covered by insurance in Australia. However, you may be able to get a little assistance from your medical cover. Some insurance companies may pay a fraction of the dental implant cost, so check the small print before committing to treatment.
Are you considering dental implants?
If you’re considering dental implants, why not schedule an implant consultation with No Gaps Dental. As a multi-location dental group, we’re able to keep prices down without compromising on quality.
Call us now on (02) 8806 0227.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.