How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

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.