Have you ever considered getting dental implants but felt overwhelmed by the cost? You’re not alone – dental implants are among Australia’s most expensive medical procedures. Exploring why this is can be helpful if you’re considering taking that step toward improving your oral health and restoring your smile, and understanding what factors contribute to dental implant costs can enlighten you with the knowledge needed for a successful procedure. In this blog post, we will determine why are dental implants so expensive in Australia and provide some suggestions on how to manage those costs.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implant surgery has several benefits over other tooth replacement options. Some of the most important benefits include: 
- Permanent treatment: dental implants are designed to last a lifetime when cared for properly.
- Improved oral health: dental implants preserve bone and prevent further tooth loss. They also do not require any adjustment to neighbouring teeth.
- Improved Looks: dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They restore your smile and appearance, boosting your confidence and self-esteem.
- Improved speech and digestion: dental implants function like natural teeth, helping to improve speech and digestion.
- Improved comfort: dental implants do not slip or move like traditional dentures, making them much more comfortable.
Factors Contributing to the Dental Implants Cost in Australia
This section will explore some factors influencing dental implant costs in Australia.
Quality of the implant
The quality and type of implant used are significant factors contributing to dental implants’ high cost. Generally, there are two kinds of dental implants; titanium and zirconia. The titanium implant is a more common and affordable dental implant, and it’s known for its strength and durability.
On the other hand, the zirconia implant is more expensive but is preferred by some individuals due to its aesthetic appeal.
Dentists often choose the implant type based on the patient’s needs; if the patient has to go for multiple teeth replacement, multiple dental implants would be needed, significantly contributing to the overall cost of the dental implant procedure.
Types Of Implants
There are various dental implants available depending on your teeth and mouth conditions.
Single dental implants are the best option for replacing a single missing tooth as they provide a secure foundation for the replacement tooth. It involves surgically inserting the implant into the jaw bone, followed by a crown or bridge.
A common type of single dental implant is the mini dental implant, which is smaller and has a shorter healing time. They are also more affordable and available in different dental implant brands than traditional implants and can be used to secure dentures and replace multiple missing teeth.
Mini dental implants are also less surgical than traditional implants as they don’t require bone grafts or sinus lifts for placement.
Multi-tooth dental implants involve using several implant posts to secure a bridge, which can replace multiple missing teeth.
Equipment and Technology Used
Dental implant procedures require sophisticated equipment and advanced dental technologies, such as 3D imaging and CAD/CAM technology.
These technologies ensure a precise and safe dental implant procedure but add to the cost.
The equipment is also subjected to maintenance costs, rental fees, and depreciation, which the dental practices must incur and pass on to the patients.
Procedure Complexity
Another factor that significantly contributes to the dental implant cost is the complexity of the procedure. For instance, the costs significantly increase if the patient requires additional procedures like bone grafting or sinus lift.
Similarly, if the patient has dental issues like gum disease, it must be treated before the dental implant procedure can take place, which adds to the overall cost of the procedure.
Dentist’s Experience and Training
The experience, qualifications, and training of the dentist performing the dental implant procedure also contribute to the cost of the procedure. Find out more.
Dentists with more experience and advanced training tend to charge more for their services. However, this only sometimes means that high fees translate to high-quality service by the dental practice.
How to Manage the Costs Associated with Dental Implants?
In this section, we will discuss some suggestions for managing dental implant costs so you can get your ideal smile without breaking the bank.
Start with Insurance Coverage
If you have dental insurance, reviewing your policy before considering any dental implant treatment is essential.
Not all policies cover implants, but some do. Look for an insurance company that provides substantial coverage for dental implants.
Consider getting dental insurance if you don’t have one before starting treatment. It is much cheaper than paying for everything out of pocket.
Research Dental Implant Options
One way to lessen the cost of dental implants is to research and consider more affordable options.
Dental implants come in different types, sizes, and materials, each with different prices.
Talk to your dentist about the various treatment options and select the one that meets your needs and budget. For example, mini implants can be a more economical alternative to traditional implants.
Consider Dental Implant Financing
Consider dental implant financing options if you can’t pay the full cost upfront. Many dental clinics offer in-house financing or work with third-party financing providers to offer patients flexible payment plans. Financing can spread out the cost over time, making it more manageable.
Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Dental Implant Costs
When considering getting dental implants, it is important to ask your dentist the right questions regarding the cost of the procedure. Here are some questions to ask your dental professional about dental implant costs:
- What types of implants do you offer, and what’s the difference between them?
- Are there any other treatments required before or during my implant placement?
- What is the cost associated with a single-tooth implant? What about multiple teeth or full-arch implants?
- Does my insurance cover any portion of the procedure? If so, how much will be paid by my plan?
- Is there a facility for financing options or payment plans for patients who cannot pay in full upfront?
- Are there additional fees associated with treatment, such as lab fees and follow-up visits, that I should consider budgeting for?
- Is a complimentary consultation offered which can provide me with more information regarding estimated costs and procedures required to achieve successful results?
- Do you offer implant alternatives like implant retained dentures?
Conclusion
All in all, dental implants may seem expensive here in Australia, but their many benefits far outweigh the cost. You must examine your options and consult an experienced dentist for the right advice and pricing on a new implant.
Furthermore, other options, such as private health insurance or payment plans, may help cover the cost of this procedure. However, before taking any action, we recommend consulting your dentist first, as they will have the knowledge and experience of available treatments to suit your conditions and provide you with a clear understanding of costs. If you have any problems regarding your dental health, please call us at (02) 9051 0600, and our experienced professionals will assist in finding the best treatment plan for you.
References
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost? (2023) | Forbes Health
https://www.forbes.com/health/body/how-much-dental-implants-cost/
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost? A Price Breakdown – GoodRx
https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/procedures/dental-implant-cost