Implants are a revolutionary way to restore missing teeth. They provide a long-term solution that looks and feels natural, restoring your smile and giving you back the confidence to enjoy life as you did before your tooth loss. However, dental implants come at a significant cost, so it’s important to understand what you’re paying for. In this article, we’ll explore the cost of dental implants, how they’re priced and what factors can affect the price you pay.
What Are Dental Implants?
Tooth implants are a type of tooth replacement option used to replace missing or damaged teeth. They are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth and can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth.
Dental Implant Procedure Explained Step by Step: What to Expect
1. Evaluation and Preparation
Before the dental implant treatment, the dentist will evaluate your mouth to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. This may involve X-rays, a CT scan, and a review of your medical history. If you are a smoker, you may be advised to quit before the dental procedure, as smoking can impede healing. If you need a bone graft to support the implant, that may need to be done before the dental treatment.
2. Anaesthesia
Dental implant surgery is typically done under local anaesthesia, meaning you will be awake during the procedure but will not feel any pain. However, if you are anxious, you may be given sedation to help you relax. General anaesthesia is rare for dental implant surgery but may be used for complex cases.
3. Implant Placement
An experienced dentist will begin the dental implant surgery process by carefully making an incision in the gum to expose the bone, followed by drilling a hole for the titanium post to be implanted. Once it is securely placed and stitched closed, the patient may receive either a temporary crown or bridge, which can be used until osseointegration takes place. This unique process fuses the post with your jaw bone over several months.
4. Healing Period
After the implant surgery, you will need to allow time for the implant to integrate with the bone. This process can take anywhere from three to six months, depending on the location of the implant and your overall health. During this time, you will need to follow a soft food diet and avoid putting pressure on the implant site.
5. Crown or Bridge Placement
Following the fusion of your implant to the bone, your dentist will attach an abutment, a small connector that rises from your gums. This attachment is what secures and supports a crown or bridge on top of the implant. To ensure consistency with natural teeth, dental impressions are taken and used to craft individually tailored bridges and crowns in terms of colour and shape.
Unveiling the Factors that Impact Dental Implant Prices
1. The Number of Tooth Implants Needed
One of the primary components that affect the cost of dental implants is the number of implants that you need. If you need just one implant, it will be cheaper than requiring multiple implants. Similarly, if you need a full mouth of dental implants, the cost would be significantly higher than a single implant.
2. The Location of the Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implant costs can vary based on the location of the dental clinic or hospital where you are getting the procedure. For example, getting dental implants in major cities might be more expensive than in other areas due to higher rent and staff salaries.
3. The Type of Dental Implants
There are multiple types of dental implants on the market that are designed for different needs. The type of dental implant you choose to get can affect dental implants cost. The cost can differ due to different materials used in manufacturing, as well as the design of the implant.
4. The Experience and Qualification of the Dentist
The dentist’s experience and qualifications also play a role in the dental implant cost. Choosing an experienced dentist to conduct the procedure can cost more but can also ensure better quality work and fewer complications.
5. Additional Dental Treatments
In some cases, additional procedures may be required, such as bone grafting, if there is not enough space to install the implants. These additional procedures can add to the overall cost of dental implants.
6. Private Health Insurance and Dental Coverage
If you have private health insurance or dental coverage, it might reduce the cost of dental implants. Some insurance plans will offer discounts on dental implants, while others cover a portion of the cost.
What Are The Price Points For Dental Implants In Australia?
It’s important to note that the price of obtaining an implant will change depending on different variables, such as the number of implants needed, the kind of implant utilised, and the location. A single dental implant can cost approximately $2,400, with full-mouth restorations costing more than that figure. It is important to note that while cost may be a consideration, the long-term benefits of dental implants are often worth the investment. It’s important to discuss all options and costs with your dentist before making a decision.
Reasons Why Dental Implants Are So Popular
1. Replacing Missing Teeth
Perhaps the most apparent reason why dental implants are so popular is that they effectively replace missing teeth. Teeth implants are designed to mimic the structure and function of natural teeth, including the root. As they fuse with your jawbone, they provide a secure anchor for your replacement teeth, making them much more stable than traditional dentures.
2. Durability
Dental implants are made from highly durable materials and are designed to last for decades, if not a lifetime. Unlike dentures, which can wear out or require frequent adjustments, dental implants are a one-time investment that can provide a long-term solution to tooth loss.
3. Improved Oral Health
When you lose teeth, the surrounding bone tissue can begin to deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation. Dental implants help to prevent this by acting as a replacement root, stimulating bone growth, and preventing bone loss. Implants also make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, as they are cared for and cleaned in the same way as natural teeth.
4. Improved Speech
Missing teeth can cause a range of speech problems, from difficulty pronouncing certain words to a lisp. Dental implants can help to improve your speech and restore your confidence in your ability to communicate.
5. Natural-Looking Appearance
Dental implants are designed to blend seamlessly with your other teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. This means that you can smile with confidence, knowing that your teeth look great.
6. Increased Comfort
Unlike dentures, which can be uncomfortable and even painful to wear, dental implants are designed to be a permanent and comfortable solution to tooth loss. They do not move around in your mouth or cause irritation, making them a more comfortable choice.
7. No Dietary Restrictions
With dentures, there are often significant dietary restrictions, such as avoiding sticky foods or hard foods. With dental implants, there are no such restrictions. You can enjoy all of your favourite foods without worrying about damaging your replacement teeth.
8. Versatility
Teeth implants can be used to replace a single tooth, several teeth, or a whole arch of teeth. This makes them a versatile solution for a wide range of dental needs.
9. High Success Rate
Dental implants have a very high success rate – over 95% in healthy patients. While there are always risks related to any surgical procedure, dental implants are generally safe, reliable, and effective.
Best Ways to Care for Your Tooth Implants
1. Brush and Floss Daily
Cleaning your dental implants twice a day is critical for maintaining oral health. Use a gentle brush and fluoride toothpaste to brush gently around the implants and surrounding gums. Flossing also helps to remove any lingering debris and plaque buildup that can lead to infections.
2. Use Antimicrobial Mouthwash
Antimicrobial mouthwash is instrumental in reducing bacteria that are harmful to your dental implants. Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash twice a day to prevent gum disease and other issues that can cause implant failure.
3. Avoid Smoking or Using Tobacco Products
Smoking or using tobacco products can lead to infections, gum disease, bone loss, and implant failure. It’s important to avoid or quit smoking to reduce the risk of these complications.
4. Regular Dental Cleanings and Checkups
Visit your local dentist at least twice a year for regular dental cleanings and checkups. This way, potential problems can be identified, and immediate action can be taken before they worsen.
5. Eat a Balanced Diet
A healthy, balanced diet is essential for your dental and overall health. Avoid sugary items as they can lead to plaque buildup, and instead, stick to nutritious foods that contain minerals and vitamins beneficial to your implants.
6. Avoid Chewing Hard Foods
Though dental implants are designed to last for a long time, they are still sensitive to the force of biting and chewing. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid hard foods or biting into hard objects that could damage the implants.
7. Wear a Mouthguard
If you engage in contact sports or grind your teeth, consider wearing a customised mouthguard. It will protect your implants and your natural teeth from any potential impact or damage.
8. Practise Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Habits like biting your nails or using your teeth as tools can cause stress on your implants, leading to potential implant failure. Be mindful of these habits and avoid them as much as possible.
9. Maintain Good Habits following any Surgery
Follow the exact procedures detailed by your dentist following any dental implant surgery, such as rinsing, taking the right medication, and avoiding certain foods or activities for a specified amount of time.
Are Dental Implants Painful?
Dental implants are a common solution for missing or damaged teeth, but many people wonder if the procedure is painful. While it is natural to have some discomfort after any dental surgery, the pain associated with dental implants is usually minimal and easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. In fact, many patients report feeling no pain at all during the procedure due to local anaesthesia. Additionally, the long-term benefits of dental implants, such as improved chewing and speaking abilities, often outweigh any temporary discomfort during the healing process. If you are considering dental implants, your dentist can discuss pain management options and provide guidance to help ensure a comfortable and successful outcome.
Get the Ideal Dental Implant Solution From Our Perth Clinic!
If you have been struggling with missing or damaged teeth, you know how much it can affect your self-esteem and quality of life. Fortunately, dental implants are an excellent way to restore your smile and enhance your oral health.
At our Perth clinic, we offer top-quality dental implant services in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Our experienced and skilled dentists are devoted to helping our patients achieve the beautiful, healthy smiles they deserve. We also offer payment plans and flexible financing options to make the procedure more affordable.
If you’re ready to get the perfect dental implant solution for your needs, contact our Perth clinic today for a consultation!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
What to know about dental implants
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327515
Dental Implants: What You Should Know
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/dental-implants-what-you-should-know