How Much do Implant Retained Dentures Cost?
While implant retained dentures come with many advantages, from comfort to appearance to simply staying put – they do come with an increased price point, as well. In deciding whether implant retained dentures are the right tooth replacement technology for you, cost might well be a determining factor. This article explains some of the major costs of implant retained dentures, from the original creation and placement to their maintenance and usual repairs over the years.
Cost of Implants
The most considerable cost involved in the creation and placement of implant retained dentures are the implants that hold them in place. Though these are small, post-like pieces of titanium or zirconium, the fact that they are surgically inserted below the gumline into the jawbone makes the cost of placing the highest of the whole endeavor. The overall price of the implants can also vary a great deal depending on how many are necessary. While two to four implants are generally the minimum number required to support lower arches, at least four to six are preferred to support an upper arch. A lower arch that requires only two implants could cost around $6000; an upper arch requiring six implants would necessarily be higher.
Furthermore, if the availability of healthy bone mass in the jaw is lower than what is required for implants to be surgically installed, your dentist or oral surgeon may suggest undergoing bone grafting procedures ahead of time, which would necessarily add to the baseline cost.
Maintenance and Replacement Costs
While the implant fixtures themselves are highly durable and generally do not have to be replaced, they may require tightening if they loosen over time. This depends to some extent on ongoing bone health and the success of the initial installation.
The dentures themselves, however, do not enjoy the same durability that the implants themselves do, and will require maintenance and repairs over time. Replacement is also a possibility. Because repair is always less expensive and time-consuming than full replacement, it is important to keep up with routine dental visits so that your dentist can keep an eye on the wear and tear on your dentures as well as evaluating any evolutions in your overall oral health. This can allow your dentist to make small fixes over time that could save you from the hassle of a full replacement due to neglect.
Other Considerations
Implant retained dentures are an investment in your health and happiness that will pay many dividends over time. From improved quality of life on a daily basis to the preservation of bone mass in the jawbone, the benefits of implant retained dentures are so varied that many people find that their value far outweighs their cost.
This is a decision that only you can make for yourself, though. As you work towards making a decision, be sure to consult with your dental insurance provider about what they will and won’t cover and have open and honest conversations with your dentist about what you want as well as what you can and can’t afford. Likely they can offer alternatives at multiple steps of the way that can help you come to a solution that works for you.