How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Anyone considering replacing a missing tooth eventually is faced with exploring costs associated with any treatment option. Since the dental implant arlington virginia treatment process if often involved, but very effective, it is important to consider what kind of financial investment it can take.
According to various sources, the current cost estimate for one dental implant is anywhere from $3000 up to $4500 - or sometimes more. And since the procedure can be involved, sometimes additional procedures - such as bone grafts - are needed before an implant can be placed, and these procedures can bring additional costs.
Dental Implant Costs: Factors and Considerations
There are various factors that must be considered in projecting and determining dental implant costs:
- Insurance Coverage: Typically dental insurance does NOT cover any costs associated with implants, because generally Dental Implant procedures are considered to be elective procedures. And generally dental insurance does not usually cover any elective procedures. There are however, some insurance policies that will cover the cost of what’s called “the implant crown”, so it’s a good idea to talk with your insurance company to determine exactly what is and is not covered. Additionally if the underlying cause of tooth loss is disease or accident, a health insurance policy may cover some of the costs of a dental implant.
- Dental Discount Plans: One option for lowering the costs associated with dental implants is to join what’s called a dental discount plan. Some of these plans will offer anywhere from 5% off to $40%off of dental implant costs. It is important to thoroughly examine the plan and pay attention details for issues such as how long of a waiting period is required before using the discount, etc.
- Flexile Spending Accounts : Some people have flexible health spending account via work, so another option is to consider using assets from such an account to help fund your dental implants. There are ways to optimize this approach, such as basing coverage on the 2 step procedure needed for implant placement - the first step is implanting the implant and the second step is the crown placement which happens 6-12 weeks after the initial procedure. It has been suggested by TIME magazine that you could schedule the initial implant procedure at the end of a year (a calendar year), and then undergo the crown procedure the following year (6-12 weeks later). Scheduling like this will allow you to use money from two years of the pretax flex spending account, which can actually save you up to 30% if you happen to fall in one of the higher tax brackets.
- Financing: Consulting with your dentist is worthwhile, as well, as there may be financing plans and/or payment plans offered directly from dentist or oral surgeon.
If you feel dental implants are right for you make sure to explore all options. Talking with your dentist and other people you know who have implants can be really helpful in helping you find the right financial options and support.