If a tooth is missing or can’t be saved, a dental implant can replace it and help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
A dental implant is a small post placed in your jaw that acts like a tooth root. It holds a custom-made tooth in place, so it looks and works like a natural tooth.
People may choose an implant if they have a missing tooth or a tooth that can’t be saved. With proper care, dental implants can last for many years.
A dentist or oral surgeon puts a tiny metal post into your jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root. Over time, your bone grows around it and holds it in place.
Once the post is secure, a small piece called a connector is attached. This holds your new tooth in place.
A custom-made tooth is added on top. It’s designed to look and feel like your natural teeth.
Your treatment plan will depend on your needs. You may need to replace one tooth or an entire row of teeth. In some cases, your dentist may recommend a bone graft before the procedure. This is where a dentist adds a small amount of bone or bone-like material to your jaw. It helps rebuild the area so it’s strong enough for an implant.
With proper dental care, regular check-ups, and good oral hygiene, the titanium implant itself can last a lifetime. The crown attached to the implant typically lasts 10 to 15 years before needing replacement due to normal wear and tear.
Beyond their longevity, teeth implants offer additional health benefits:
- Because they are anchored into the jawbone, they stimulate the bone and prevent deterioration.
- Unlike traditional bridges, a single tooth implant does not require the dentist to grind down or damage the adjacent teeth, helping to preserve your overall oral health.
The cost of your treatment will depend on the complexity of the surgical procedure and the number of teeth being replaced. A single tooth implant could range from $3,000 to $4,500. This price usually includes the implant post, the abutment, and the final crown.
If you need a full set of replacement teeth, such as an implant-supported denture, the cost can range from $20,000 to $30,000 or more per row of teeth. Additional procedures, like tooth extractions or a bone graft, will also increase your total out-of-pocket expenses.
Historically, many dental insurance plans viewed implants strictly as a cosmetic procedure. Today, however, many insurance plans recognize their health benefits and offer at least partial coverage. Your coverage will depend on your specific plan
Insurance coverage for dental implants varies widely by insurance plan. While some plans might not cover the surgical placement of the titanium post, they may pay a percentage of the attached crown or any necessary initial tooth extractions.
Many dental insurance plans cap how much they’ll pay for covered services each year. Since a tooth implant can easily exceed $1,000, patients sometimes spread their treatment over two calendar years to maximize their in-network benefits.
Ask your dentist to submit a preauthorization to your insurance company. This document will detail exactly what the insurance company will cover and what your estimated out-of-pocket costs will be, helping you plan your financial investment with confidence.
Get reliable answers to your insurance questions, such as how to get prior authorization and submitting a claim.
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