What are the different types of dental implants? There are available, each designed to meet different needs and conditions. The most common type is the endosteal implant, which is surgically placed directly into the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants, on the other hand, are placed under the gum but above the jawbone and are typically used in patients who do not have enough healthy jawbone and cannot undergo a bone augmentation procedure. Zygomatic implants are less common and are used when the jawbone is insufficient, anchoring instead in the cheekbone. The choice of implant type can influence the overall cost due to the different surgical techniques and materials involved. Why are dental implants so expensive? Several factors contribute to the . Firstly, the materials used, such as titanium or zirconia for the implant posts, are expensive. These materials are biocompatible, ensuring that they integrate well with the jawbone without causing adverse reactions. Secondly, the process involves multiple stages, including the surgical placement of the implant, the healing period, and the attachment of the prosthetic teeth. Each stage requires specialized skills and equipment. Additionally, the customization of the prosthetic teeth to match the patient’s natural teeth adds to the expense. The expertise of the dental professional performing the procedure also plays a significant role in the cost, as more experienced practitioners tend to charge higher fees. Are there ways to reduce the cost of dental implants? While dental implants can be costly, there are several ways to potentially reduce the expense. Seeking treatment at dental schools can be a viable option, as they often offer services at a reduced rate while allowing students to gain practical experience under the supervision of experienced instructors. Shopping around and comparing prices from different dental offices can also be beneficial. In some cases, traveling to countries with lower dental costs, known as dental tourism, might offer significant savings, though it requires thorough research to ensure quality care. You can also consider getting traditional dentures or bridges – dental implants have significant advantages, but full or partial and are far more affordable, and can be the best option for you. Don’t dismiss them based on how they functioned and felt a decade or more ago, advances in dentistry have led to the creation of flexible and lightweight denture materials, providing a more secure fit, natural look and improved functionality. Talk to your dentist and discuss what option is right for you. Also ask your dentist about implant supported dentures. With this method, you get a limited number of implants – 4 to 6 – which are used to support a lower or upper denture. This provides many of the bone-preserving benefits of dental implants, potentially at a lower cost. Does dental insurance cover implants? If you need implants soon and don’t already have dental insurance, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to quickly use insurance to reduce the cost of implants – many insurance policies have waiting periods. Additionally, dental insurance coverage for implants varies widely. Traditionally, many dental insurance plans have not covered implants, considering them cosmetic dentistry rather than a necessary treatment. However, this is gradually changing, and some insurance plans are beginning to offer partial coverage for implants. It’s essential to review the specifics of your insurance policy and consult with your provider to understand what aspects of the implant procedure might be covered. Coverage might include portions of the procedure such as extractions, crowns, or the implants themselves. Do dental savings plans include dental implants? , sometimes called dental discount plans, offer an alternative to traditional insurance. These plans typically provide a discount on many dental services, including restorative dentistry such as implants, in exchange for an annual membership fee. The amount you can save varies by plan, but you can typically reduce the cost of dental implants by about 20% with a dental savings plan. Unlike , dental savings plans don’t have deductibles, annual limits or waiting before you qualify for reduced rates. You can use your plan within 1-3 business days of joining to save on virtually all your dental care. There are plans that fit every dental care need and budget. The quickest way to find the perfect dental plan for your needs is with our — just answer a few quick questions and you’ll receive a personalized plan recommendation in minutes. Want a quick peek at how much you can save on your dental care right now? Use our calculator below. *Discount Health Program consumer and provider surveys indicate average savings of 50%. Savings may vary by provider, location, and plan. All cost averages obtained from the DentalPlans.com procedure search tool, and independent research., Luckily, a full set of dental implants does not consist of 32 individual implants, as that would be costly, time-consuming, and require extensive dental work. A true “full set” of dental implants typically ranges between four to eight, though that number can vary according to your needs and your dentist’s recommendations., What is the true cost of dental implants for single-tooth, multiple-tooth, and full-mouth procedures? Here's what you need to know, according to our experts..