Dental implants can vary greatly in cost. In Los Angeles, they can range in price starting from $3000- $5000 per implant. At LA Dental Clinic, our average price for an implant is $3750. However, there are many different factors that can affect this price. Whether it is the materials used, the number of implants required, or simply the area in which the implant is placed – it’s important to know the factors influencing the cost of dental implants, before your procedure.
Dental Implant Materials
Dental implants are most commonly made out of a titanium ‘root’ and ceramic crown. A small metal screw connects the two pieces, however, in some versions, the screw can be part of the crown.
Titanium is used, often, because the jawbone bonds well with this material. It is also biocompatible, which means it is safe to have in our bodies. Titanium or titanium alloys are the standard implant materials.
Sometimes a patient may require modified materials due to a metal allergy or sensitivity. This can have an effect on the cost of dental implants. The most common alternative to titanium is a ceramic dental implant. Zirconia is the leading ceramic alternative material and it is beige in color, which makes it blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Number of Dental Implants
The number of dental implants needed to complete the restoration is one of the largest cost factors, and it will depend on each individual patient. If one tooth is missing, a simple, single-tooth implant is sufficient. However, if a patient is missing several teeth, it is possible to replace them with individual implants, but this will inevitably drive up the cost.
Many patients that are missing all or many of their teeth choose tooth replacement alternatives like dentures, full-arch restoration, or fixed bridges. These options restore your ability to eat and chew, and they are more cost-effective than getting an entire mouth of dental implants. In some cases, these alternate restorations do require dental implants, but there are often only 2-6 needed.
Bone Grafting
Patients that have been missing teeth for over a year without a replacement are much more likely to experience bone loss in their jaw. Your natural teeth put weight on the jaw, keeping it strong and healthy. When a tooth is lost, the bone in that area can slowly deteriorate. In extreme cases, this can cause instability and lead to additional tooth loss.
In order for implants to be placed, there must be sufficient bone density to support the implant. Bone grafting is an extra step and adds to the recovery time required after the procedure. At LA Dental Clinic, bone grafts typically cost about $500-$750 per treatment site. However, this number can vary depending on the patient’s needs.
Patient Oral Health
Patients who have suffered from oral infections can have a more difficult experience when getting dental implants. Implants can fail if the mouth has experienced severe trauma or if it has been infected previously. Some common illnesses include gum disease, jaw infections, abscesses, or a root canal.
It is not impossible to place an implant in these situations; however, patients should be aware that previous infection can contribute to implant failure. This can add to the overall cost and complexity of the procedure, especially if implant replacements are required.
Tooth Extractions
Tooth extraction is often straightforward and fast, and in some cases, an implant can be placed the same day after the tooth extraction. However, if your tooth requires professional extraction, it’s likely to raise the overall cost of the procedure. In many cases, basic tooth extractions are covered by dental insurance providers. At LA Dental Clinic we also offer an in-house program that can help you save.
Visit LA Dental Clinic to Learn More
At LA Dental Clinic, our team can help to answer any additional questions you have about dental implants in Los Angeles. If you are concerned about the cost of dental implants, it is important to know that many health insurance companies and payment plans can help to ease the immediate cost. If you are interested in learning about what dental implants cost for your specific case, contact us today for your free consultation.