How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Medford, OR
 The cost of dental implants varies widely, depending on the condition of the individual as well as their specific needs. The cost of each dental implant varies from $1,500 to $2,000. This does not include the bill for other expenses such as the dental crown, tooth extraction, root extraction, abutment, office visits, as well as pre-op and post-op care, all of which could cost an additional $2,000 to $3,000. This means that the total cost of a single implant can range from $3,500 to $5,000.
Although dental implants may appear to be cost-prohibitive at first, there are clear advantages of the procedure that can be life-changing and long-lasting. Let's take a look at the various expenses involved in a dental implant procedure.
3D Imaging
The first step in every dental implant procedure is to create an accurate 3D image of your oral cavity. The goal is to capture as many details as possible, including views of your teeth, gums, tissues, nerves, and bone structure. This is usually done with the aid of various imaging tests such as CT and x-ray scans. These tests will cost anywhere from $300 to $500, depending on how many are performed. The information will allow us to provide you with custom dental implants for a snug fit.
Materials for Dental Implants
To understand why dental implants are so expensive, we have to take a look at their anatomy. Each implant consists of the implant post (also known as the screw), the abutment, and the prosthesis. Dental implant posts are made out of biocompatible yet sturdy materials such as titanium and zirconium oxide. Titanium is a popular choice because it is strong and durable, with a lifespan of over 40 years. Note that the dental crown itself is usually made from porcelain, ceramics, or metal alloys. Ceramics are a good choice because they provide the most natural look.
All of these materials contribute to the cost of dental implants, and depending on where you live, it may be difficult to source titanium. This can drive up the cost of dental implants. At Rogue Valley Dental Center, we only utilize high-quality materials for dental implants for the best possible results.
Some Patients Require Bone Grafts
Adequate jawbone density is a prerequisite for dental implants. Without enough bone density, the implant will quickly fall out of place and may even penetrate the sinus, which could lead to further complications. Patients who do not have sufficient jawbone mass will have to undergo a bone grafting procedure. As a rule, you need at least 1 mm of bone around the dental implant. Bone grafts are invasive surgeries that can be incredibly taxing on the body. They also require multiple visits to the dentist for follow-ups. Furthermore, bone graft surgeries can delay the procedure by up to six months. This procedure can add anywhere from $400 to $1,000 to the overall bill. During this time, you will be asked to avoid smoking and strictly follow post-op instructions to speed up recovery.
Administering Anesthesia
Dental implant restoration is usually performed under local anesthesia. This will add about $50 to $200 to the cost. However, some patients may not be comfortable with the idea of someone drilling into their jawbone to make way for the implant. Such patients may require deep sedation performed by an anesthesiologist who will also monitor vital signs during the procedure. General anesthesia can cost anywhere from $400 to $3,000, depending on various factors, including the intensity of the surgery.
Dental Implants vs. Mini Implants
Mini implants are usually recommended to patients who do not have sufficient jawbone mass to support regular dental implants. Their small size allows them to fit into constricted spaces and is used to replace smaller teeth like premolars and incisors. One advantage of mini dental implants is that they only cost about $500 to $1,500. This is much lower than the price of a regular dental implant procedure - which is about $3,500 to $5,000, as discussed earlier. A quick consultation with our dental experts at Rogue Valley Dental Center should help you learn if mini implants are a better option for you.
Think of Dental Implants as an Investment
Although dental implants appear to be expensive at first, they are vastly superior when you compare them with other available options. Alternatives, like bridges and dentures, may be less expensive, but they often require repairs and replacement every five to 10 years (if you follow a good oral care regimen).
Additionally, the cost of frequent maintenance for dentures and bridges will quickly add up over the years. It is also worth mentioning that dental implants don't require any special care routine. All you have to do is brush and floss your teeth regularly, and your dental implants should last a long time. The same cannot be said about conventional solutions such as dentures.
For one, dentures require daily cleaning and flossing to prevent the buildup of particles and bacteria. You will also be required to visit your dentist routinely to ensure that the dentures are performing as they should.
A big advantage of dental implants is that they prevent jawbone loss - something that alternatives like dentures and bridges cannot do. Loss of bone density will change the shape of your face and make you look older than you are. This can also cause your existing teeth to grow loose. Think of the jawbone as a strong foundation that holds your teeth together in place. Once this foundation is gone, you will lose your remaining teeth as well.
It is important to make sure that your remaining teeth stay in your teeth. Dental implants not only prevent jawbone loss but also ensure that your remaining teeth don't fall out. This is why our dental experts Dr. Taucher and Dr. Burnham want you to think of the procedure as an investment. This investment will pay for itself in the coming years. For more information about the cost of dental implant restorations and to see if you're a good candidate for the procedure, call us at (541) 779-4517. |
Rogue Valley Dental Center 
