Whether you damaged your teeth in an accident, or simply have succumbed to tooth decay, dental implants are an increasingly popular way to restore your smile and its functionality. A dental implant is an artificial tooth made of titanium that replaces a lost one. Such implants can either be for a single tooth, multiple consecutive ones or even a full arch of teeth. However, because of the customisation and skill required to create the perfect implant, they can be expensive.

Therefore, you want to be sure you’re getting the most out of them. Thankfully, as a busy Collingwood dental practice, we can help you understand exactly what you’re paying for and how to get the best value for your money.

How Much Are Dental Implants in Australia?

As we said before, getting dental implants isn’t cheap. The cost will also depend on your individual needs and situation as well. Generally, the cost for a single tooth is around $5,563, with the average being anywhere between $3,000 and $6,500.

If you are getting an implant-supported bridge with two implants spanning three or four teeth, expect the final bill to be anything from $6,700 to $20,500, with the number and location of implants dictating the price.

Similarly, the average price of getting All-on-4 dental implants ranges between $23,000 to $27,000 per fixed arch of teeth, while a full mouth reconstruction can come to anywhere between $36,000 and $40,000.

Why Are Dental Implants So Expensive in Australia?

Dental implant costs depend on a few factors and can vary from clinic to clinic. The quality of the implant you are getting, and its type can drive prices higher or lower. If you need to get a bone graft to supplement your dental implant, it can cost around $2,500–$3,000 more, unless it has already been included in your treatment cost.

Other minor procedures like tooth extractions can also add to the overall treatment cost, and this is something you should consider before you give the go-ahead. Thus, the more complex your situation and its treatment course is, the more you can expect to pay.

A dentist’s experience and proficiency also come into play. With a complicated field like dentistry, dentists need to constantly keep updated with industry standards and new approaches, which takes a substantial investment — both in terms of time and finances. When a dentist can boast of the best there is to offer, their prices also often go up in accordance with this additional value they can offer their patients.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants may be expensive, but they are worth it for the assistance they provide to functionality and also the durability they offer. If maintained properly, high-quality implants are built to last a lifetime.

If there are no complications, the titanium screws that fuse with your jawbone should last you forever, but the dental crown which replaces the actual tooth must be replaced every 5—15 years depending on its condition.

Factors that can potentially affect the lifespan of your implants are their placement within your mouth, your dietary and lifestyle choices, and even how you use your teeth. Having said that, these factors should only affect your dental crown, and not the titanium implants themselves under ordinary circumstances.

Get Your Money’s Worth from Your Dental Implants

Thankfully, it’s not difficult to maintain your dental implants and keep them in good condition, making the most of your financial investment. However, it is something you must do diligently and consistently. Ultimately, by maintaining good oral hygiene at home, and having regular checkups with your dentist or hygienist, you can extend the lifespan of your implants.

Failure to properly maintain oral hygiene can lead to bacterial build-up on the gums surrounding the implants, or in worse scenarios, can even lead to infections. Infections can jeopardise the bone tissue surrounding the implant, and in extreme cases, you may even end up losing your implant for this reason.

Along with regular brushing, flossing and use of an antimicrobial mouthwash, making some sensible lifestyle decisions can go a long way as well. Smoking in particular can negatively impact the durability of your implants.

Get High-Quality Dental Implants at Abbotsford Dental

Getting dental implants can be a big decision to make due to the expenses involved, the commitment you are making, and, for some people, even the stigma of doing so.

If you are eligible to get implants, it is generally a decision for the better despite the costs, but it is always best to clear things out with a professional if you are in two minds or need better clarity.

If you are considering getting dental implants, and are in Melbourne, get in touch with us at Abbotsford Dental at (03) 9410 1077, or send us an email at [email protected]. The friendly staff and experienced professionals at our Collingwood dental practice would be happy to help you out with any questions or concerns you may have.