When compared to traditional dentures or dental bridges, implant supported dentures may provide a better functioning and more comfortable restoration for replacing lost teeth. Because surgery is needed to place the implants, the procedure for getting implant supported dentures is more involved and tends to be more expensive compared to other options.
As is often the case with any medical or dental procedure, cost is likely a concern when evaluating treatment options. So that patients have the information needed to make an informed decision, this article will evaluate the average cost of implant supported dentures along with the factors that can affect the overall price.
Average Cost for Implant Supported Dentures
The actual cost patients incur for implant supported dentures is impacted by several factors including the number and type of implants used, the expertise and geographic location of the dentist performing the procedure, the quality of material used for the denture, and the need for any additional preparatory procedures. Overall treatment cost will also be influenced by the health of the patient’s existing teeth, gums, and jawbone.
On average, implant supported dentures can cost anywhere from $5,000 to more than $30,000. With such a large variance in price, it is important to take a closer look at the items that affect overall price.
Factors That Influence Implant Supported Denture Cost
* Number of implants required: The greater the number of implants needed to support the denture, the higher the cost. While a full denture typically will need six to eight implants for support, some systems rely on four implants (All-on-4).
* Type of implants used: The two main types of implants are traditional and mini. Because of their size, traditional implants offer greater stability required for larger restorations and typically cost $1,500 to $2,500 per implant. Because traditional implants require sufficient jawbone area to place them, not all patients will be candidates for them. In these situations, mini implants can frequently be substituted. Costing $500 to $1,500 a piece, mini implants are less costly but do not provide the same degree of support or longevity.
* Quality of denture: While an inexpensive denture can be had for about $300, the level of stability, comfort, and aesthetics will not be as great as a higher quality counterpart. Cost of high-end dentures can reach $5,000.
* Choice of dentist: Price can also be impacted by the reputation, experience, and geographic location of the dentist performing the procedure. While more costly upfront, selecting a highly experienced dentist reduces the likelihood of complications and costly repairs. And choosing a dentist in a populated urban area will likely be more costly due to the increased overhead of running a dental practice in these areas.
* Insurance coverage: Since it is largely classified as a cosmetic procedure, dental insurance rarely covers the costs for dental implants. This can greatly influence what a patient pays out-of-pocket for their implant supported dentures.
* Additional procedures: Should other issues like tooth decay, gum disease, or insufficient jawbone area be present, they will likely need to be addressed prior to undergoing implant surgery. All of these additional procedures will add to the bottom line related to implant supported dentures.