The Average Cost of Tooth Implants
Have you considered a tooth implant procedure but were uncertain of its average costs? You may be pleased to learn that the cost of tooth implants is within reason, especially if compared with the long term costs incurred by other options, such as dentures or bridges.
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Considerations
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The cost of a tooth implant procedure is directly proportional to the number of teeth that a patient is interested replacing. In 2006, the average cost for a single tooth implant was $3,182, compared to the cost of replacing three teeth, which was cheaper per tooth. According to Charles A. Babbush, author of "As Good As New: A Consumer's Guide to Dental Implants", getting three teeth implanted only cost $8,483. Thus, if replacing several teeth at once, a patient may be able to save several hundred dollars in costs.
Geography
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In dentistry, just as in real estate, location is key. Where a dentist chooses to locate his offices affects the prices that he charges for his services. Furthermore, location is also a factor that is important during a tooth implant procedure. If a desired tooth implant must be inserted in a patient's mouth at an awkward angle, the cost of tooth implants may be slightly inflated as a result of extra time and effort required to complete the procedure.
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Economies of Scale
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Oral surgeons who purchase supplies in bulk may be able to pass on lower costs to their patients. Dental supplies are difficult to cheaply procure. However, an implant dentist who oversees a busy practice is likely to purchase supplies in bulk in order to receive large order discounts. Thus, when considering implant costs, patients may be wise to employ the services of a dentist who is well-established in his field.
Warning
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In certain instances, tooth implant procedures require patients to undergo extensive and costly preparatory work. Three drawbacks of such preparatory work is that it can be painful, expensive and may also take a substantial block of time to heal from. Patients who require reconstructive surgery may even respond negatively to an implant procedure, causing an inflammation to occur.
Alternatives
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Costs associated with tooth implants may be less considerable than those associated with alternative solutions, such as dentures. The costs of maintaining a dental bridge over a long term far exceed the cost of receiving dental implants. Thus, while implants are initially more expensive than other viable options, they actually save a patient money over his lifespan.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Richard
