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Your dentist just told you that you need a tooth extracted and recommended you get a dental implant. You shake your head and say “No way! Dental implants are so expensive! I’ll just live without the tooth.”
Another scenario: You have had dentures for years. Your jaw is shrinking, and you are constantly struggling with the fit and comfort of your dentures. Your dentist recommends an implant-retained denture. What’s your first question? “How much will that cost me?”
We get it. Dental implants are a significant investment. But like all investments, the more you know about them, the more confident you can be that you are making a smart investment, one that will continue to pay off.
In this blog, we will explain everything involved in a dental implant procedure. We will explain factors you may not have thought about, including surgeon expertise, imaging software and material used, as well as other procedures that may be necessary.
Table of Contents
- Dental Implant Procedure Breakdown
- What Factors Influence the Cost of Dental Implants?
- Factors To Consider When Deciding on a Tooth Replacement Option
- Factors to Consider When Choosing an Implant Surgeon
- AZ Max: Your Dental Implant Specialists
- Additional Resources
Dental Implant Procedure Breakdown
A dental implant procedure is a multistep process that involves multiple professionals. Generally, it involves the following steps:
- Consultation and treatment planning: During this initial step, your oral surgeon will assess your mouth and discuss your options with you. This may include taking 3D images of your mouth to identify any underlying issues.
- Bone grafting (if needed): If you have insufficient bone in your jaw, a bone grafting procedure may be necessary to create a stable foundation for the implant. This is not just another way for us to make money. If you have been without a tooth or teeth for a while, your jaw begins to deteriorate. If you don’t have enough bone density, your jaw will not be able to support the implant. However, there may be other options available that allow us to skip this step. All-on-4 or All-on-X dental implants are an option for individuals with bone loss.
- Implant placement: This step involves surgically placing the titanium post into the jawbone. This process takes a few hours and requires specialized equipment and surgical assistants. IV sedation is usually required as well which adds to the cost.
- Abutment and restoration: Once the implant has fused to the bone, an abutment (a small connector) is attached to the post. This acts as a base for your prosthetic tooth or crown. Your dentist will then create a custom-made crown that will fit perfectly onto the abutment and match your natural teeth in size, shape, and color. If you are having a full arch of teeth replaced, a fixed implant-supported denture may be used instead of individual crowns.
- Follow-up appointments: After the implant is placed and restored, follow-up appointments are necessary to ensure proper healing and long term success of the procedure. These appointments may include x-rays and adjustments to the prosthetic teeth.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Dental Implants?
- Expertise and training: Oral surgeons who specialize in dental implants have gone through extensive training and education to provide the best possible care for their patients. This expertise comes at a cost, but it also ensures that you are receiving high-quality treatment from a skilled professional. The more qualified the surgeon, the better chances of a successful implant surgery. Like anything else in life, you pay more for better quality.
- Imaging software and material used: Advanced imaging software such as 3D CBCT scans allows for more precise placement of dental implants, reducing the risk of complications and improving overall success rates. High-quality materials, including titanium posts and porcelain crowns, also add to the cost but ensure durability and longevity of the implant.
- Additional procedures: If teeth need to be retracted before the procedure this will add to the overall cost. As mentioned earlier, bone grafting may also need to be done.
- Sedation and anesthesia: Implant surgery is a surgical procedure that requires sedation or anesthesia for patient comfort. This adds to the total cost of the treatment.
- Geographic location: The cost of dental implants can vary depending on your location. Generally, urban areas have higher costs due to increased overhead expenses and demand for services.
Factors To Consider When Deciding on a Tooth Replacement Option
Consider all factors, not just cost. While cost is an important factor, it should not be the only consideration.
Think about the long-term benefits: how will your quality of life be affected? Will the tooth replacement option allow you to eat your favorite foods and participate in your favorite hobbies?
Do you want an option that is maintenance-free? Dentures and bridges require regular maintenance and replacement, while dental implants have a high success rate and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Implant Surgeon
Here are some tips to help you choose the right dental implant surgeon:
- Do your research: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous patients. Ask for recommendations from friends and family.
- Check qualifications: Ensure that the surgeon is board certified and has adequate training and experience in dental implant surgery.
- Ask about their success rates: A successful implant surgery depends on the skill of the surgeon. Make sure to ask about their success rates and compare them with national averages.
- Ask about surgical techniques: An experienced surgeon will be able to handle complex cases. Ask about their experience with different types of dental implants and surgical techniques such as All-on-4 and All-on-X.
AZ Max: Your Dental Implant Specialists
Our team of board-certified oral surgeons have extensive training and experience in dental implant surgery. Our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with the latest technology to ensure successful outcomes for our patients.
We offer free dental implant consultations and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and budget. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile – regardless of what tooth replacement option you choose.
Wherever you are in the tooth replacement process, we are here to help. We provide the following services:
- Tooth extraction
- Bone grafting
- Dental implants
- All-on-4 and All-on-X
- Hybrid implants
If you are searching for a dental implant specialist or an ‘oral surgeon near me”, call or text (480) 830-5866 or complete the online booking form.
Additional Resources
Two Popular Alternatives to Dental Implants
Dental Implants vs Dentures: Which Option is Best For You?
The Advantages of Dental Implants for Seniors & Aging Adults