Reviewed by Dr. DJ Lemieux

Reading time: three minutes.

It is easy to get excited by a low price tag, but cheap dental implants can come with expensive consequences. That price might not include everything you need, or worse, it might reflect shortcuts in your care. Before you commit, ask yourself: is the deal really as good as it looks?

This blog will walk you through the real cost of dental implants, why some prices are so low, what to look for in a provider, and how to afford implants without compromising quality.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

A “cheap” dental implant that skips essential steps or materials can end up costing you more in the long run. Ask detailed questions, compare complete treatment plans, and choose a provider who values safety, skill, and transparency.

Why Dental Implant Prices Vary So Much

A big price gap usually means a big difference in what is included. Some dental implant clinics advertise a base fee that covers only one part of the treatment. For example, that low-cost offer might only include the dental implant tooth post, not the crown, abutment, surgical procedure, or sedation.

Here are the main factors that affect cost:

  • What is actually included: Crown? Abutment? Imaging? Anesthesia? Do not assume. Ask for the full treatment plan.
  • Quality of materials: Some dental implant screws and crowns are more durable and biocompatible than others.
  • Surgical needs: Bone loss may require bone grafting or sinus lifts to support the dental implant tooth procedure.
  • Provider skill: A dental implant specialist with experience in advanced procedures like All-on-4 dental implant options will charge more.
  • Sedation options: Deep sedation or general anesthesia increases the initial cost.

The Risks of Going With the Lowest Advertised Price

The biggest red flag with “cheap” dental implants is what they leave out.

  • Incomplete treatment: If the offer only includes the implant post, you still need to pay for the crown and abutment, raising the total cost of teeth implants.
  • Limited planning: Some providers skip digital treatment planning or do not offer guided implant surgery, which are essential to protect adjacent teeth and ensure the implant fuses properly.
  • Cut corners in care: Clinics offering low prices may use outdated dental implant technology or poor materials.
  • Retreatment is expensive: If a dental implant breaks or fails due to poor planning or fit, you may face additional surgery and recovery time.

What to Prioritize Besides Price

Dental implants are a life-changing treatment that can restore your oral health and quality of life. Focus on total value, not just the number.

Here is what really matters:

  • The surgeon’s experience: Choose a dental implant specialist with a strong track record in dental implant surgery. 
  • Advanced technology: Tools like 3D imaging, digital guides and guided implant surgery protect your natural teeth and improve accuracy.
  • Transparency: A clear, itemized treatment plan with no hidden fees or vague language.
  • Comprehensive care: From your initial consultation to your final dental crown, choose a provider that coordinates every step for you.
  • Safety and comfort: A clean, modern setting and sedation options that ensure proper care and recovery.

How to Afford Implants Without Cutting Corners

You can make quality dental care more accessible without compromising safety.

  • Request an itemized quote: Make sure you are comparing the same services across different dental implant prices.
  • Ask about financing: Many offices offer payment plans to break up the initial cost.
  • Consider phased care: For single tooth implants or multiple placements, you might space out visits.
  • Use your benefits: FSAs, HSAs, or limited dental insurance may offset costs.
  • Think long-term: A strong implant placed correctly the first time is more cost-effective than repairing poor work later.

The Bottom Line: Do Not Be Fooled by the Lowest Price

When it comes to tooth replacement options, the cheapest route often leads to more problems. A successful dental implant procedure depends on skill, planning, and follow-through.

At AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, we provide dental implant solutions backed by experience, modern tools, and a commitment to oral hygiene and long-term health.

What Patients Are Saying

“Dr. Romney was fantastic.” His excellent skill and experience delivered a successful implant on a very challenging location due to extensive bone loss. He was open with me on the very first visit that achieving a successful implant was higher risk than typical. He was completely transparent on the risks while presenting a plan on how he would perform a series of procedures that could produce a successful implant. I judged him as highly competent and trustworthy and chose to move forward with tooth extractions, bone fills, and ultimately the implant. This week was the strength-test for the implant. It passed! I am so glad that I had Dr. Romney and now I am going to be able to have a crown in that location. I would not hesitate using Dr. Romney and his staff!

“Thank you Dr Boyse and staff at AZ Max Surgeons!” I experienced great care from extraction, sinus lift, to implant surgery. I experienced little discomfort and no pain. The process was amazing. Thank you!

Meet Our Oral Surgeons

Book a Dental Implant Consultation With Our Oral Surgeons Today

Choosing the right implant provider should never come down to cost alone. At AZ Max, we offer full-scope implant care with experienced surgeons, advanced dental implant technology, and transparent pricing.To schedule a consultation at one of our 5 locations, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online inquiry form. We have locations in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe or Show Low.