How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Houston, TX
 Dental implants are dental appliances that mimic the function of the tooth’s root. The screw-like device is affixed to your jawbone to replace missing teeth. It is usually done after a tooth extraction or tooth loss.
Why is the dental implant procedure necessary? The treatment prevents jawbone deterioration after losing one or more teeth. The artificial root exerts pressure on the jawbone to limit bone resorption. If you have missing teeth, our dentists at Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS can develop a tailored plan after a thorough oral assessment.
Dental Implant Placement Process and Materials
The dental implant procedure involves placing the implant and an abutment. The implant is the part that mimics the tooth’s root and resembles a screw. An abutment refers to the device sitting between the screw and the crown. The placement of the abutment is done when tissues heal after an implant.
There are two varieties of implants your provider may choose for dental implant placement. They include endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants.
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are ideal when the jawbone is healthy and intact. It consists of an artificial tissue graft and a titanium screw. The screw fuses with the jawbone, creating a stable support base for the artificial tooth.
Endosteal implants are the most widely available implants today. The screw is implanted into the bone. Titanium undergoes osseointegration where it merges with the jawbone.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are the less common type of dental implants. They are ideal for cases where the jawbone does not have adequate density to support the titanium screw. This implant does not require implantation into the bone. It involves minute cuts on the gums and jawbone to place a metallic structure. After the gum tissues heal, a dental prosthetic is attached to the frame.
Our dental specialists will often recommend endosteal over subperiosteal implants. They have better outcomes despite being more invasive.
If you don’t have adequate bone mass, our dental team may suggest bone grafting. Your gum tissue has to heal before implant placement. Although the cost is higher, endosteal implants have better long-term results.
Dental Implant Costs for Different Types of Implants
Dental specialists also offer different types of dental implants depending on your oral health needs. The number of missing teeth is the primary factor influencing dental implant costs. The more teeth that need replacing, the more expensive the procedure.
Single Tooth implant
This type of implant is ideal for cases where only one tooth requires a replacement. It involves placing a root on the jawbone and a crown to complete the tooth.
A single replacement is the most affordable compared to alternatives. Typically, dental implant costs vary between $3,000 and $4,000.
All-on-4 Dental Implants
Many people consider the All-on-4® Treatment Concept to be a better alternative to dentures. Unlike removable dentures, they are stable and do not require dietary adjustments. You can replace more than one missing tooth and enjoy your favorite foods.
All-on-4 implants use four implants to support a bridge-like device. It involves placing two posts in the location of your incisors. Posterior posts are inserted at a steep gradient to support the bridge-like appliance better.
The cost of the dental implant procedure to replace an arch of teeth is $15,000 to $20,000. You’ll pay twice the amount for a full mouth replacement with All-on-4 implants.
Implant-Supported Bridges
An implant-supported bridge is a more affordable alternative when you are missing more than one tooth. The prosthetic consists of bridges that attach to posts inserted into your jawbone. They are a permanent solution and last longer than a regular bridge.
Also known as fixed partial dentures, they are an alternative to bridges when you don’t have supporting teeth. Conventional bridges typically require healthy surrounding teeth to support the overdenture. The bridge attaches to the implant rather than surrounding teeth, offering a stable base for artificial teeth.
The cost may vary depending on the number of missing teeth and dental implant materials. The procedure may cost between $6,000 and $16,000.
3-on-6 Dental implants
As the name implies, 3-on-6 dental implants consist of three overdentures affixed to six supporting posts. The three bridges have a set of artificial crowns that mimic the look and function of your natural teeth.
3-on-6 dental implants are a variation of All-on-4 implants. The principal merit of 3-on-6 dental implants is they don’t come with artificial gums. That improves the aesthetic of dental appliances. They are a better option if you are worried about the appearance of your teeth.
A dental diagnosis will determine if 3-on-6 implants are ideal for your case. The dental implant costs may vary between $10,000 and $15,000.
Why invest in Dental Implants?
The dental implant procedure appears to cost more relative to regular restorative treatments. However, it is a permanent solution for more than one missing tooth. Other dental prosthetics are less expensive, but they only last between five to 10 years.
Dental implants are more durable than alternative restorative prosthetics and have long-term oral health benefits. For instance, they facilitate tissue repair. Implants exert pressure on the bone, which prevents bone tissue erosion.
Another advantage is that they limit changes in appearance. When the jawbone deteriorates, it transforms the face, making you appear older. Implants stop the degeneration that affects your appearance.
Moreover, implants prevent tooth loss. Since they limit bone deterioration, implants reduce the risk of premature tooth loss. When the supporting bone deteriorates, the teeth lack support and fall out.
Lastly, they are more convenient. Unlike dentures and bridges, implants mimic the function of regular teeth. You can brush your teeth and eat your favorite foods once your gums heal. They are easy to maintain and make for a more convenient tooth replacement.
Choosing Dental Implants
The dental implant costs discussed here vary depending on your oral profile. Our dentist may recommend additional procedures like bone grafting, increasing the procedure's cost. You will have the chance to discuss the options before our dental team fits the implant.
If you need implants, our dentists at Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS will explore potential treatments with you. Call (346) 250-2930 to request an appointment today. |
