Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your oral function, bone density and facial structure. As a result it is important to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are considered the best option for long-term tooth replacement. However it can be confusing to understand the exact cost of dental implants:

Below is a detailed breakdown of the average cost of single, multiple and full mouth dental implants. We also outline the key factors that affect the cost of dental implants.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost? A Complete Price Breakdown?

 

A single dental implant consists of three main components. The average cost of a complete single dental implant will be between $3,000 to $6,000 depending on the brand and country you are in. 

The costs are split into:

 

  • Implant Post/Screw – 40-50% of the cost of the implant. This is the titanium post inserted into the jawbone.
  • Abutment – 15-20% of the cost of the implant. This is the small piece that connects to the top of the implant.
  • Crown – 30-40% of the cost of the implant. This is the visible part of the implant that is made to look like a natural tooth.

Multiple Tooth Implant Costs: Bridges and Replacement Options

If there are multiple adjacent or spaced missing teeth then multiple implants or an implant bridge will be used to replace them:

 

  • Two or Three Adjacent Teeth – The cost of replacing two or three adjacent missing teeth using an implant bridge will be between $5,000 and $10,000 globally.
  • Multiple Spaced Teeth – If the missing teeth are in different areas then multiple implants will be placed and will cost the amount of a single implant.
  • Bridges – Using an implant bridge will reduce the cost of the treatment as less titanium posts are required.

Full Mouth Dental Implants: All-on-4, All-on-6 and Total Costs

 

If all of the natural teeth are missing from the top or bottom of the mouth then you can use full mouth implants. These give a permanent solution to losing teeth instead of having a loose removable denture.

 

  • All on 4 – This technique involves using 4 titanium posts that angle into the jawbone to secure a full set of teeth. This will cost you between $15,000 and $30,000 per arch in USA.
  • All on 6 – This involves using 6 implants per arch, therefore providing greater stability and distributing the bite force more evenly. This will cost between $20,000 to $35,000 in USA. 
  • Full Mouth – This will involve replacing both the top and bottom arches at the same time using fixed implant bridges. This will cost between $30,000 and $60,000+.

Key Factors That Affect the Overall Cost of Dental Implants Guide

Every dental implant procedure is unique and the cost will depend on some factors.

 

  • Brand – Using well known and high-end brands will cost a lot more as these have been researched by experts for many years and have high success rates. Cheaper brands will be cheaper.
  • Surgeon – An expert doctor and oral surgeon will charge much more as they have lots of experience.
  • Technology – Practices offering 3D CBCT scans, oral scanners and guided surgery will charge more as the surgery will be more precise.
  • Location – The cost will vary depending on the city/country you are in as the running costs and staff costs will change.

Additional Dental Procedures That Can Increase Implant Costs

 

Many patients will need extra procedures before the implant can be placed.

 

  • Extraction – Removing any natural teeth will add to the cost of your treatment. This will cost between $150 to $500 per tooth.
  • Bone Graft – If there is bone loss from losing teeth for a long period of time then bone graft will be needed to create a solid base. This can cost between $300 to $1,500.
  • Sinus Lift – If you are replacing upper molars close to your sinuses then a sinus lift may be needed. This will cost between $1,000 to $3,000 per side.
  • 3D CBCT Scan – This scan will give a detailed image of your bones. This will cost between $150 and $400.

Cost Comparison Between Implants, Bridges & Dentures

Although implants are more expensive to start with, they are a much more cost effective option for the lifetime of your teeth. Implants have a high success rate of 95-98% and can last between 15-25+ years. Whereas bridges and dentures will need to be replaced every 5-10 years.

 

  • Natural Teeth – When using bridges, adjacent teeth need to be ground down to support the bridge. This can cause increased risk of decay and root canals on the teeth.
  • Bone – Implants are the only option that will stimulate the bone underneath. This prevents bone loss and sagging.
  • Insurance & Payment
  • Having insurance and payment plans makes dental implants much easier.
  • Insurance – Many traditional dental insurances will consider implants as an elective treatment. However many modern insurances will cover the scans, extraction or crown.
  • Health Savings Account – You can use your HSA or FSA to help pay for your implant.
  • Payment Plan – Many accredited practices will offer you payment plans where you can pay monthly with no interest (EMI). Or you can use third party finance such as CareCredit.

Getting a quote for implants

  • Ask for a detailed breakdown of the cost. Ask how much the implant post, abutment and crown will be.
  • Ask if they include the consultation, 3D CBCT scan and follow up appointments within the quote.
  • Ask if you will need any extra procedures such as bone graft.
  • Ask what brand they are using. Are they titanium? What warranty does the manufacturer offer?
  • Ask if your insurance will cover any of the extraction, abutment or crown.
  • Ask what payment plans you will be able to do monthly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implant Costs and Care

Why do the prices vary?

The prices vary depending on the brand of implants being used, if they are using 3D CBCT, how experienced the doctor is and if any extra procedures are included in the quote.

Should I go for the cheapest quote?

Sometimes you may lose out by going for the cheapest option. Some very cheap quotes may be using unbranded implants with little research behind them, freehand implant placement with no 3D planning and may not include the crown in the initial quote.

Will my insurance cover implants?

It is uncommon for implants to be fully covered by insurance. However many insurances will cover some parts of the treatment such as the extraction, initial x-ray or crown.

How long will they last?

With excellent oral hygiene, regular flossing and 6 monthly check ups, the titanium post will last between 25 years and a lifetime.

 

Investing in dental implants is a long term decision. They will give you the ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly and smile confidently. Although they are a lot more expensive to start with they are the most reliable and cost effective option. They are durable, have a high success rate and will help protect your bone. Book a consultation with a qualified implant specialist to get a detailed breakdown of your treatment.