Dental implants are an investment that can provide a lifetime of benefits. However, one of the most pressing questions for patients who may need dental implants in San Jose and the Bay Area is, “What is the average cost of dental implants?”
The answer to this question is not necessarily clear-cut. That is because there may be opportunities for patients to mitigate these costs through insurance, payment plans, and other options. So, if you need dental implants, (San Jose area, Cupertino, Fremont, and other Bay Area locations), take a closer look at the potential costs of dental implants. We will also cover how the costs compare to the lifelong benefits of dental implants for your oral health and smile.
What are Dental Implants?
When a tooth is lost or severely damaged, your dentist may recommend dental implants as a permanent solution. Dental implants consist of an implant body and an abutment, made of an everlasting material like titanium, as well as a natural -looking crown that is identical to a natural, perfect tooth. The implant is surgically placed in the jawline to restore a person’s ability to chew, protect surrounding teeth and gums, and enhance a patient’s appearance.
How Long Does a Dental Implant Last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. However, due to normal wear and tear the crown that mimics the artificial tooth may need to be replaced every 15 years or so. Comparatively, dentures and bridges must be repaired or replaced every 5 to 10 years. Therefore, when considering the costs of dental implants, consider the lifespan of implants and their alternatives as well.
How Much are Full Mouth Dental Implants, Single-tooth Implants, and Everything in Between?
For starters, the cost of dental implants varies widely based on the number of implants required and other factors. The cost of a single tooth implant is understandably the least expensive. It ranges from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the procedure and any other oral health issues that need to be addressed.
Dental implants for multiple teeth can cost around $5,000 or more. On the other hand, full mouth dental implants are typically more expensive, and it also depends on what your dentist recommends.
Factors that May Affect the Cost of Dental Implants
A wide variety of factors affect the total price of your dental implant procedure. These factors include the following:
- The type of implant – Different varieties of dental implants can vary in size and material, which can also affect the complexity of the procedure. However, when it comes to dental implants, you want the most advanced implants possible to ensure a lifetime of use and exceptional oral health.
- The number of implants required – As stated, the cost of implants varies based on whether a patient needs a single implant to replace a missing or damaged tooth or multiple implants to create a perfect smile from ear to ear. Naturally, the cost increases if multiple implants are required.
- Other procedures that may be needed – A patient may also need additional treatments, which can obviously increase the total cost of a dental implant procedure. For example, a patient may not have enough healthy tissue to support the implant in their jawbone. Therefore, a bone grafting procedure might be needed before the implant can be added. Your oral surgeon will conduct a thorough examination and notice if any additional steps are required for your dental implant procedure to be a success.
Paying for Dental Implants
Do not let a potential fear of high costs deter you from addressing your oral health! There are many options for mitigating the cost of dental implants, including insurance, payment plans, and more.
What Insurance Covers Dental Implants?
When it comes to how to get dental implants covered by medical insurance, it’s time to talk to your insurance provider. Many dental insurance providers do cover most or all the cost of dental implants, especially if dental implants are a recommended treatment for your oral health issues.
Does Medicare Pay for Dental Implants?
Generally speaking, Medicare does not pay directly for dental implants, but Medicare may help cover other correlated expenses. For example, Medicare may assist with the costs of a procedure like a tooth extraction to treat any underlying infections or health issues before dental implants are needed.
What are Other Options for Paying for Dental Implants?
Many patients can utilize flexible spending accounts (FSAs), health reimbursement accounts (HRAs), and health savings accounts (HSAs), which all cover dental implants (either upfront or after the procedure has been completed, as a reimbursement.) In addition, additional financing and payment plan options may be available. Our experienced dental group in San Jose and Bay Area can help guide you on all financial opportunities to cover the cost of your implants.
Are Dental Implants a Good Investment?
When it comes to your health – and your smile – dental implants are a worthy investment simply because of their lifelong benefits.
Remember that the underlying oral health issues that result in the need for dental implants simply don’t go away on their own and progressively worsen over time. Ignoring your oral health needs now will result in higher costs over the long term. Also, compared to more temporary solutions like dentures or bridges, dental implants may address root health issues while providing a permanent solution for missing, damaged, or otherwise injured teeth.
Learn More About the Cost of Dental Implants and the Long-term Oral Health Benefits
Understanding the dental implant procedure and its associated costs starts with a consultation with our experienced dentist in San Jose and the Bay area. Our professional team utilizes the best care and technology to provide exceptional results for every patient.
This is where Pannu Dental Group shines.
If you are concerned about your oral health and your smile and are not sure where to start when it comes to potential treatments, then it’s time to reach out to our team at Pannu Dental Group.
We will work with you every step of the way, from your initial consultation to years after your treatment, to ensure that your oral health is an investment providing a lifetime of unparalleled benefits.
Reach out to us today if you’re considering dental implants in San Jose or the Bay Area. Schedule your consultation today! During this initial appointment, we’ll explore the costs associated with dental implants and determine the best options to enhance your smile.
Dr. Dalvir S. Pannu has been a practicing dentist since 1995. In 1996 he opened his first dental practice in India, where he gained invaluable experience and acumen. In October of 1997 he was invited by the American Dental Association (ADA) to present the table clinic on Endodontics, at their annual session held in Washington, D.C. At this time he fell in love with the United States and became passionate about practicing dentistry in California. He became particularly enamored of the San Francisco Bay area, and soon took up residence and work here.