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We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent weather:

To help provide relief for California policyholders residing in Santa Cruz County who were affected by the coastal storms, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting Dec. 23, 2024, and ending Apr. 15, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.

For Network Dental and Vision Members:

This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.

We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:

To help provide relief for California policyholders residing in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting Jan. 7, 2025, and ending Mar. 10, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.

For Network Dental and Vision Members:

This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.

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How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Nearly 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth.1 Despite how common this is, missing just one tooth could lead to significant health and quality of life issues. Fortunately, dental procedures, such as dental implants, can help replace missing or damaged teeth to restore function and protect your oral health.Below, we’ll explain how dental implants work, how much they cost, and how they compare to similar procedures.

4 Min Read

Table of Contents

How dental implants work

A dental implant is a device that is surgically attached to the jawbone and designed to mimic the form and function of teeth. An implant has three parts:2

  • Implant body: This is a small titanium screw that is attached to your jawbone to secure the rest of the implant. This fuses with the jawbone to prevent slipping, noise, or damage.3

  • Abutment: This extends from the screw through the gums and into the mouth.

  • Crown: This sits on top of the abutment, mimicking a tooth.

Cost of dental implants

Dental implants typically cost between $3,500 to $6,700 for one tooth. This includes the device and the actual surgical procedure. Dental implant costs are high because they are complex procedures and can take a few months to complete.2

How much do full-mouth implants cost?

Full-mouth dental implants can cost $43,000 to $56,000.2 Getting full-mouth implants can be more complex, as it may take longer and require more procedures.

Additional costs related to dental implants

Several additional procedures may be necessary to install dental implants successfully. Here are some examples:2

  • Dental X-rays: Providers will need to take X-rays.

  • Bone grafting: This involves placing extra bone matter on the jaw at the implant site if bone loss has occurred.

  • Sinus lift: This procedure thickens the upper jaw.

  • Extractions: You’ll pay extra for any extractions the dentist must perform, such as if you still have the target tooth. Tooth position and condition can impact these costs.

  • Anesthesia or sedation: Sedation brings you close to unconsciousness to reduce discomfort. General anesthesia, which makes you completely unconscious for the procedure, can cost much more since it requires an anesthesiologist.

  • Follow-up visits: Additional visits to check on the implants may cost more if you don’t have insurance to cover them.

Does dental insurance cover dental implants?

Dental insurance policies may help cover the cost of implants if they are deemed medically necessary. Many plans use the same benefit structure meaning they help cover Preventative care, Basic services, and Major services.4

Dental implants are generally considered major services, meaning many plans will help cover a portion of the cost, if medically necessary. Therefore, your implant overall cost may vary since expenses are subject to annual maximums, if applicable — plus any deductible you owe. For example, Aflac’s Dental Core helps to cover major dental services, after a specified waiting period. However, Aflac’s Dental Insurance does not currently have benefits for dental implants. Policyholders pay a deductible, depending on how long they’ve held the policy.

Aflac’s Dental Elite plan offers additional coverage in comparison to the Dental Core plan in exchange for higher premiums.

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Are dental implants worth it?

Dental implants are among the most expensive procedures, but they offer several benefits:

  • Improved oral health: Implants protect gums from bacteria buildup, maintaining good oral health.

  • Jawbone health: Tooth loss can weaken the jawbone in the area through loss of stimulation. A dental implant restores that stimulation, protecting the jawbone.

  • Preservation of nearby teeth: Unlike bridges, implants don’t require adjacent teeth to support them. This protects existing teeth.

  • Restored functionality: An implant helps you eat and speak normally again. They don’t slip or move, unlike dentures.

  • Appearance: Dental implants look like real teeth, restoring your smile.

Given these benefits, here are some situations where you may consider getting dental implants:

  • You have multiple missing teeth that cause chewing and talking issues: Implants provide a durable, long-term solution for restoring the functionality of your teeth.

  • You want the most comfortable solution: Dental implants may offer more comfort than dentures, which can slip or cause difficulties with eating.

  • You want to preserve your other teeth: Dental implants may reduce the need for future procedures for other teeth since they stand on their own, unlike bridges.

  • You want the most natural appearance: Nobody can tell implants are artificial. They restore a natural-looking smile, boosting your confidence.

  • You have good coverage or a large budget: Given the cost of dental implants, they may work best if you have significant dental coverage, a large budget for dental work, or both.

How dental implants compare to alternative options

Dental implants offer many benefits, but they aren’t your only option. Here are some alternatives and how they compare to dental implants:

Dental bridges

Here is how dental bridges compare to dental implants:5

  • Lifespan: Bridges must be replaced every five to seven years, whereas dental implants generally last 15 years or longer.

  • Surrounding teeth health: Bridges can damage surrounding healthy teeth.

  • Appearance: The natural-looking appearance of your teeth can fade as time goes on.

  • Insurance: Bridges are more likely to qualify for insurance coverage.

  • Cost: Bridges tend to cost less than dental implants.

  • Visits: Bridges may just require two visits, whereas dental implants may require several more and have a higher chance of surgical complications.

Dentures

Here is how dentures compare to dental implants:6

  • Lifespan: As dentures wear down, they may need to be changed every few years. Changes in gum and bone structure can also impact denture fit over time.

  • Appearance: Dentures offer the same appearance as implants unless they slip.

  • Care: You can treat implants like any other tooth and follow the same oral hygiene routine. Dentures, however, require daily cleaning and removal to prevent wear and maintain their fit.

  • Comfort: Dentures may slip or create discomfort. You may need adhesives to keep them in place in your mouth. Meanwhile, dental implants don’t usually cause discomfort after a successful surgery and recovery.

  • Insurance: Dentures are more likely to qualify for insurance coverage.

  • Cost: Dentures tend to cost less up front, but may involve additional expenses for adjustments, replacements, and relining.

Get a quote for Aflac dental insurance

Dental implants offer one of the best ways to replace missing or damaged teeth, restoring your smile and protecting your oral health. However, they are one of the more expensive dental procedures. Weigh the benefits against the higher costs, and consider alternatives like dentures and bridges when deciding which option is right for your needs.

Regardless of your chosen procedure, Aflac’s dental insurance can significantly reduce costs and put a happy and healthy smile within reach. Speak with an agent today to explore your options and get a quote.

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