There’s no getting away from the fact that when compared to other forms of missing teeth replacement, teeth implant cost isn’t cheap. So even though implant-based restorations are the gold standard, the initial cost of undergoing the procedure can put people off from having them.
So what is the average cost of a dental implant in Australia?
On average, you can expect to pay somewhere between $2500 and $6500 for a straightforward single dental implant with crown – more towards the latter if the tooth needs extracting first.
On the flip side, a series of dental implants used in conjunction with dentures to replace all your teeth can set you back as much as $20,000.
So while a dental implant cost sounds a lot – and indeed it is – there are good reasons why they cost what they do, but there are also reasons why they will save you money in the long term.
Firstly, why dental implants cost what they do…
Materials – a dental implant is usually made from titanium. This is the same super light but super strong material that they used on the Space Shuttle and Formula 1 racing cars. Titanium is also necessary for osseointegration – an important process in implant-based restoration whereby bone tissue fuses with it to create an ultra-stable structure. As you can imagine, the cost of this metal is significantly higher than the cost of other metals.
Technology – Dental implants are way more than just replacement teeth. They are in fact precision engineered pieces designed to fully restore both form and function. As a result, the technology used to manufacture them, test them – and in many cases – fit them, can equate to a considerable amount of money. This has to be reflected in the overall dental implant price.
The procedure – You have to remember that dental implant placement is a surgical procedure and one that requires a great deal of skill and training to undertake. As a result, you may see a highly experienced general dentist, a prosthodontist or an oral surgeon. In addition, a dental implant isn’t a ‘set and forget’ type of procedure. Instead, you can expect to visit your dentist several or more times before, during, and after the procedure – again, this needs to be factored into the cost of a dental implant.
Now you know why dental implants cost what they do, how are they likely to save you money? In essence, it’s all about the long-term view…
Take a conventional bridge for example – Although the cost of a dental bridge is typically around $1500-$2000, the shelf life is only around 10 years. Alternatively, dental implants costs are higher but they can last several decades and more without any problems.
So the question is… do you pay less initially with the idea that you’ll need to replace your restoration several or more times during your life, or do you pay more for a dental implant in the first instance, knowing that if cared for correctly, it can last for many years to come?
Dental implants are inexpensive to care for
Perhaps the best thing about dental implants is that once fitted, they aren’t any more expensive to care for than your natural teeth. Toothpaste, dental floss, and regular 6 monthly dental visits are all it takes to keep your teeth and associated implants in great condition.
Alternatively, other dental restorations including dentures need to be scrubbed using a special brush and soaked in special solutions to prevent bacterial build-up, every single day.
That’s before we even mention the denture fixative you may or may not need. All these costs can mount up considerably.
Dental implants are hassle-free
Because dental implants are anchored directly into the jaw, they are a permanent fixture. Therefore they are guaranteed not to move or cause any embarrassing ‘slippage’ moments when speaking or eating.
Moreover, once in position, dental implants are considerably stronger than conventional dentures, allowing you to eat what you want when you want. This enables you to easily follow a healthy eating plan if you so wish.
With the above in mind and in addition to initial outlay costs, you might want to consider what price you would put on having a hassle-free smile for many years to come.
If you are still unsure about dental implant price and whether you can afford it, then why not come and speak to the team at No Gaps Dental. As a multi-location dental group, we already offer some of the best prices on dental treatments in the Sydney Metropolitan area. We also provide flexible payment plans allowing you to spread the cost of treatments like dental implants over several months.
You don’t have to suffer from missing teeth. Give the No Gaps team a call today on (02) 8007 6727 and talk to us about how we can help you get the dental implants you need at a cost that won’t break the bank.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.