Your FAQ's: Dental Implants

The Your FAQ's titled posts are truly inspired by our patients and prospective patients. Please take the time to read these thorough explanations of the most common questions we hear in our practice.

Most people are aware of implants as replacements for single teeth, but implants as supportive structures under dentures, and partials are growing in popularity. A great deal of patients ask us first about price. Today's post helps adress the question!

Pictured: Mini dental implant supported denture.
Mini implants require less bone to attach securely and have a quicker
healing time than full size implants. Your dentist
will ask for a CAT scan to help determine which kind
of implant is right for you and where to place the implants.

Q: How does the cost of implants compare to alternatives?

A: The perception is that implants cost a great deal more than other methods of tooth replacement or restoration. However, looking at the long term, implants are in fact less pricey that the alternative. For example, if a single tooth is being extracted (or has been lost) and replaced, a bridge would be the traditional treatment. This option is often times asetheticly pleasing, and lasts 5-10 years. Surrounding teeth will be affected as grinding is necessary to fit supporting crowns on either side of the missing tooth. The cost would vary from $6,000. With a single implant and crown, you can expect a 25 years to life expectancy and the added benefit of bone preservation. The implant physically acts as a tooth root and maintains your natural bone. This bone would deteriorate otherwise. The implant costs $2,500-$4,-500, once.

                                      Cost over 20 years
Bridge                  6,000                       Single tooth implant   2,500-4,000
Replacement  #1  6,000                               no need to replace
Replacement  #2  6,000                               no need to replace

Total                  $18,000                  Total                  $2,500-4,000

If you have more questions about full size or mini dental implants, check out our website or give us a call at 757-486-4880.

Do you have a question you'd like us to answer? Submit your questions in the "reply" section here or email us at office@drdooleydental.com. We hope you've found this questions helpful. Be sure to check our website for a list of other frequently asked questions!