Did you know that by 2026, the total number of dental implant procedures in the US will increase by 23%? More and more people are turning to dental implants to replace damaged and missing teeth.
If you’re considering dental implant surgery, figuring out the cost is likely at the top of your list. But the cost of implants goes way beyond the implant alone. Many factors can affect how much dental implant surgery can cost, like the types of implants you choose, additional procedures you may need, and the surgery itself.
Keep reading this guide to learn everything you need to know!
Overview of Dental Implants
Dental implants function as replacements for your natural teeth. Dental implants have titanium posts that are inserted into the jaw bone and eventually act as an artificial tooth root. Over time, your jawbone grows around the implant, securing it into place.
If you don’t have enough jawbone to support implants, you’ll need bone graft surgery first to build up the bone in your jaw.
Types of Implants
A single tooth dental implant is the most common type, but you can also get multiple tooth dental implants that can support two to three implant crowns (artificial teeth).
If most of your teeth are missing, you can choose an implant-supported bridge or implant-supported dentures. You’ll have from three to eight implants placed along your upper and lower jaw to support the implant crowns.
What to Expect During Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implant surgery takes place in three separate stages. Your dentist will first numb your tooth and gums with local anesthesia and drill the implant into the bone. After 4 to 5 months of healing, you’ll move on to the following steps, which include:
- Placing the abutment or post into the implant
- Attaching the implant crown to the abutment
If you don’t need any additional procedures like bone graft surgery, you can expect an average of six months of healing time before your implant surgery is complete.
Dental Implant Surgery Recovery
You can expect mild pain and jaw swelling for the first 2 to 3 days after surgery. You can take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen and use an ice pack to reduce pain and swelling.
You’ll also need to eat soft foods like smoothies, soups, and other pureed foods for the first few weeks following your implant surgery. You can read more about the dental implant surgery recovery process for more tips about what to expect.
Dental Implant Surgery Cost
The cost of dental implants themselves ranges from $1,000 to $6,000 per implant. But that is just for the implant alone. You’ll find the total cost of dental implants varies for each person, depending on different factors like:
- Whether you’re getting single or multiple dental implants
- The location of your implant
- If you need additional procedures like bone graft surgery or tooth extractions
- Pre-op imaging tests like x-rays
- Types of materials used for the dental crown and implants
- Any complications during the recovery process
- Dental insurance coverage options
Talk to Your Dentist About Dental Implant Surgery Today
Make sure to talk to your dentist more about the dental implant surgery cost for your situation. Your dentist can evaluate your overall dental and jawbone health and decide what types of implants will work best for you.
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