How Much Are Dental Implants? 5 Factors That Influence The Cost

Dental implants are the best replacement option for you if your teeth are severely damaged or have come loose. Dental implants are prosthetics that are implanted in your jaw to replace missing teeth. Many patients are surprised to learn that dental fixtures can look and feel just like natural teeth! The dental implant procedure is complex but has a very high success rate.

A dental implant consists of three different parts: the implant post, the abutment and the crown. 

 

Implant post

The implant post is a “screw” that is made using titanium. It is directly inserted into the jawbone through a minor surgical procedure. The post is shaped like a natural tooth root to provide maximum support. 

 

Abutment

The implant post lies under the gumline, so an abutment is added as support for the crown. It works as a connector between the root and the crown. 

 

Crown

The crown is cemented on the abutment and looks exactly like a real tooth.

Crowns can be manufactured using different materials, such as porcelain or ceramic.

 

Types of dental implants 

 

Endosteal implants

It is a commonly used implant that involves the insertion of the implant post into the jawbone. It can hold one or more replacement teeth.

 

Subperiosteal implants

A subperiosteal implant is used when there is lack of healthy jaw bone to support and hold the dental implant in place. A subperiosteal implant is placed on the jawbone.

 

What to expect during a dental implant treatment?

 

 

1. Initial Evaluation

Before your dentist or oral surgeon can determine the best dental implant procedure, they first need to do a comprehensive examination that includes taking X-rays and impressions as well as matching the colour of your teeth so your implant looks indistinguishable from the rest of your dentition.

Depending on how many teeth you want to replace and your oral health condition, you may have to visit and discuss pre-surgical steps with a periodontist.

Your dentist will go over all your medical conditions and medications. Depending on what you have, you may need antibiotics to prevent infection.

 

2. Tooth Extraction

If you have a tooth that still needs replacing, your dentist will remove it before they begin the dental work. This can be done at the same time as the implant insertion.

At your appointment, your dentist will go over the anaesthesia options with you. In all likelihood, they will administer a local anaesthetic like novocaine or lidocaine to numb the area and take away any pain. Unless the tooth is fractured, it shouldn’t take long to remove it.

When getting a tooth extracted, you’ll only feel some slight pressure and tugging. To prevent further pain after the extraction, refrain from blowing your nose, smoking cigarettes, spitting excessively or drinking through a straw -these can all lead to a painful condition called dry socket.

 

3. Inserting the Dental Implant and Bone Grafting

Before your dentist inserts the implant in your jawbone, he needs to ensure that your current jawbone is strong enough. In most cases, no extra bone needs to be added.

Your jawbone needs to be strong to handle the chewing process. Having a strong bone will also protect your implant better. In some cases where the extra bone is needed, your dentist can take it from another part of your jawbone that isn’t near the implant site.

If you get a graft, the surgeon will not insert the implant into your jawbone until the graft heals. After the implant is inserted, osseointegration begins; this is where 3-9 months of integration occurs as the implant fuses with your jaw bone.

 

4. Abutment Placement

Once your dental implant is sufficiently secure, the dentist will affix an abutment to the top of the implant. The abutment joins the implant to your crown. It’s necessary to tighten the abutment, so it doesn’t fall out when you eat.

You shouldn’t feel anything during this procedure except for perhaps a bit of pressure, as you’ll get local anaesthesia in that area.

The abutment can sometimes be placed during the same surgery as the implant. However, because it is visible and goes past the gum line, you will need to discuss cosmetic options with your dentist. A healing cap will also be needed to keep tissue and bone from growing over the top of the abutment.

 

5. Adding the Permanent Crown

After your gums have healed, your dentist will create an artificial tooth or crown for you. Your dentist will ask whether you wish to have a permanent or removable crown. If you are having multiple teeth replaced in the back of your mouth, like with dentures, you may want the removable option so that you can clean and replace them as needed.

Once a fixed implant is in, it cannot be removed like other implants -they are either screwed into the abutment or cemented down.

 

5 ways to know if you are a good candidate for dental implant surgery.

1. Your gums and teeth should be in good health.
2. To have a dental implant, you need good bone density. This will ensure that the implant has enough support.
3. Good teeth habits or oral hygiene regimen.
4. Quitting smoking, or for non-smokers.
5. Have patience with the process that can take up to twelve months to be fully completed.

 

 

How much does a dental implant cost?

As we explained above, dental implant surgery is an advanced treatment carried out in several stages by expertly trained dental surgeons. This understandably affects its cost. The cost of dental implants depends on the number of teeth being replaced, if a bone graft is required and whether a sinus lift is necessary. A sinus lift may be needed if you have lost height in your upper jawbone due to tooth loss and need to rebuild the bone so that it supports the implant(s). 

 

Single-Tooth Implant 

Depending on your treatment plan, a single-tooth implant in Australia could start at $3000. 

 

Implant-Supported Bridge 

The cost of an implant-supported bridge, like other dental procedures, will differ depending on your individual treatment plan.

 

Implant Retained Denture 

If you are considering implant-retained or implant-supported dentures, be aware that the cost for this type of dental work can start at $12,000 and could be more expensive depending on your individual dental situation.

 

All-on-4s

All-on-4s are a game-changer in the dental industry, and it is more affordable than you may think. The implants replace full arches with just 4 implants per jaw, and treatment typically starts at around $19,000 in Australia.

However, please keep in mind that this cost could differ depending on your dentist’s recommended treatment plan.

 

5 factors affecting the cost of dental implants

1. You will need to undergo more surgeries and spend more money if you have to replace multiple teeth as opposed to a single tooth. The state of your teeth and gums will also play a part in how often these replacements must be done, which then alters the price tag.
2. Depending on the individual’s mouth, certain teeth may require more delicate adjustments to reach optimum results and make sure your smile is looking great from all angles. With this in mind, some cases will be more complex than others and thus come with a heftier price tag.
3. One important factor for successful dental implants is having sufficient jawbone density to hold the titanium posts securely. If you have low bone density, you may need a bone graft before treatment in order to improve your chances of success.
4. Your dentist will need to remove the tooth that needs to be replaced. This is a different procedure that is priced separately.
5. If you have gum disease or another oral health condition, you will need to get treatment before getting your implant. This is to make sure your mouth is healthy and that you will have a good outcome after the implant procedure.

 

Dentures vs Dental Implants Cost 

Many people choose removable dentures over dental implants because they are cheaper; however, dentures can be less comfortable and unstable, making it difficult to speak and eat. They also require regular cleaning and adjustment. Dental implants are more expensive than dentures, but they’re a better long-term investment. Dentures’ cost can start at $1,000 per set, while dental implants cost starts at about $3,000 per implant. Over time though, the stability of dental implants prevents damage to adjacent teeth surfaces that poorly fitted prosthetics may cause.

 

How to take care of dental implants?

 

1. Use a Soft Nylon Brush 

After you get dental implants, you might need to switch to a gentler toothbrush with nylon bristles. Avoid any toothbrushes with hard bristles, as they could scratch your implant’s surface. Once your implants are in place, don’t use any metal instruments to clean your mouth. Regular brushing and flossing twice a day is more than enough. 

 

2. Avoid Abrasive Products 

To keep your dental implants clean and healthy, you’ll want to purchase sensitive oral hygiene products, like toothpaste and mouthwash. Abrasive products can damage your implants or irritate your gums, so it’s best to avoid them. You should also steer clear of intensely flavoured oral hygiene products, like mint or cinnamon toothpaste, as they can cause a burning sensation in your mouth.

 

3. Floss Daily 

Brushing your teeth is crucial, especially if you have dental implants. If plaque builds up around your implant, it can create other oral health problems. Fortunately, many flosses on the market are designed for those with dental implants ­­– so there’s no reason not to brush daily.

If you find it hard to make time for flossing, try these tips:

 

Set a reminder to floss

Use your phone to set a reminder for when you need to floss your teeth. This is a good way to make sure that flossing is done even when you are too busy. 

 

Keep a Spare Floss in Your Car or Purse

With floss always at the ready, you can quickly take care of your teeth whenever you have some downtime.

 

Incentivise Yourself to Floss

It’s okay if you need the motivation to start flossing. Promising yourself a reward for completing the task can be helpful. For example, let yourself watch an extra episode of your favourite TV show after you’ve successfully flossed for 30 days in a row. If you want to make the reward even more enticing, consider something like a new pair of shoes or a day at the spa!

 

4. To keep your implants healthy, avoid eating hard/sticky foods

Hard kinds of foods can damage your implants and opposing teeth. Examples of sticky/hard foods to avoid:

• Ice Cream
• Caramel candies
• Dried fruit like raisins or apricots
• Hard candy
• Hardshell tacos
• Potato chips that are stale or dry
• Raw carrots
• Apples
• A rare steak
• Crusty bread, such as a french baguette

 

5. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

It’s beneficial for your health to avoid smoking and alcohol regardless, but it’s especially important if you have dental implants. Your dental implants need about 6 months to heal fully, so smoking during this time can slow down the healing process. Additionally, research has shown that drinking alcohol slows down the healing of dental implants, so it’s best to avoid it entirely if possible. 

 

6. Schedule regular dental visits

Dental implants may improve your smile, but they’re not a cure for every dental hygiene issue.

Depending on your oral health overall, you should plan to visit the dentist at least twice a year. However, with proper care and regular visits to the dentist, your implants can last quite a while.

 

7. Immediate Aftercare Tips 

Here’s everything you need to know about taking care of your dental implants right after the procedure. You’re going to experience pain and swelling for up to 24 hours after getting dental implants, but this is normal.

Don’t panic! Just follow these simple instructions:

• To stop the bleeding, bite down on the sponges in your mouth.
• Keep your head elevated for the first 8 to 12 hours after surgery.
• Hold an ice pack to your face every 15 minutes.
• For the first 24 hours, only eat soft foods and drinks.
• Take your medications as directed by your doctor. Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours after surgery.
• You should also avoid driving yourself home after surgery.

 

It’s time to reclaim your smile!

At No Gaps Dental, we want to help give you the smile you deserve. Dental implants may be the right tooth restoration option for you, and our team can let you know for sure.

Contact us now on (02) 8007 6727 to book an appointment – We can’t wait to meet and serve you!

 

 

 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.

 

 

 

 

References

Bridging the Gap with dental implants
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/dental-implants-teeth

Everything to know about a dental implant procedure
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/dental-implant-procedure