As with most surgical procedures, it is understandable that costs are a concern for those considering dental implants. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to provide a single cost for dental implants. This is because each situation is somewhat unique and, more importantly there are various facets to dental implant treatment. With that said, it is helpful to understand the various factors that may impact the total cost your dental implant treatment plan, so you are better prepared to consider the fees.

Cost Will Vary Depending on Situation
So for example, while a basic dental implant is typically $1,250 to $3,000, depending on your circumstances additional costs for things such as in the case of a posterior mandible, bone regeneration, sinus elevation, and wide diameter or narrow diameter implants can quickly escalate the costs involved to as much as $30,000+ for the complete procedure for the upper or lower jaw.

Comparing Cost of Implants to Alternative Procedures is Vital
It is also vital to compare the cost of dental implants with other methods of tooth replacement, such as a bridge. In general, though the up-front cost maybe higher, dental implants will prove to be less expensive over time. The basic reason for this cost differential is due to the fact that other treatments require extensive repairs, replacements, and procedures to preserve the integrity of facial structures and prevent additional tooth loss compared to dental implants.

Team of Professionals Likely Required
However, unlike comparable procedures, replacing missing teeth with dental implants is a complex and multi-disciplinary treatment modality. There is a surgical phase and a restorative phase to treatment. At times, it is possible that one dentist will handle both the surgical and restorative phase, but it is more likely that two dentists will be handling your case. It is certainly much more cost effective when the same dentist both places and restores a patient's implant, but this is not always possible.

Surgical Costs
Your expenses during the surgical phase will most heavily depend on whether you have sufficient bone or not and where the implants will be placed. Though, the number of implants is somewhat of an issue, most dentists realize that the success of the surgery is paramount, and therefore the fees reflect less the number of implants, than the complexity of the procedure.

When bone augmentation treatments are called for, your costs will surely increase. As well, it's possible that depending on your circumstances, you may require a Sinus Lift, which will add to the expense. Please also note that you may be charged a fee to get a Cone Beam CT or medical CT prior to implant placement.

Restorative Fees
Your expenses during the restorative procedure mainly reflect fees for your abutment (the part that connects the implant and the restoration) and crown. If you are getting an overdenture (a removable restoration that attaches to implants), the costs may increase considerably.