The average cost of a single dental implant in the U.S. can range from $3,100 to $5,800, according to the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute cost survey. This doesn’t include expenses including consultations and dental crowns. Plus, if multiple implants or a full-mouth reconstruction are required, prices can be much higher.

Though these are daunting figures, there are more affordable options. It will help to understand the process and costs associated with dental implants to find the best solution for your oral health. Read on to learn more about navigating through the procedure and expenses involved if you need this type of dentistry in Port Saint Lucie.

1. Initial Consultation

The journey towards dental implants typically begins with an initial consultation with a dentist in Port Saint Lucie who specializes in implant dentistry. During this appointment, the dentist will assess your oral health, review your medical history and discuss your treatment goals. This consultation allows the dentist to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.

2. Treatment Planning

Once you are deemed a candidate for dental implants, the dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan may include a number of procedures – most importantly, the placement of dental implants. You may also have a treatment plan that includes tooth extractions or bone grafting, if necessary. By the time you leave your consultation, you should have a clear sense of what your next few appointments will be like and how much you’ll be paying.

3. Dental Implant Placement

Once your dentist indicates that you’re ready for your teeth implants, you’ll be booked for an outpatient surgical procedure. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Titanium poles will be placed into the jawbone, serving as artificial tooth roots that provide a sturdy foundation for the replacement teeth. And while this procedure may sound intense, it may only take one or two hours per implant, and you’ll be going home the same day.

4. Healing Period

After the dental implants are placed, a healing period is necessary to allow the implants to integrate with the surrounding bone. While you’ll be recovering from surgery from anywhere between two to four weeks, during those weeks, you may be limited to soft foods or no physical activity. However, like a broken bone that requires titanium plates or screws, the jaw will take a few months to merge with the implanted metal. This process, known as osseointegration, could take as long as eight months to fully heal. During this time, temporary restorations such as may be placed to maintain aesthetics and function.

5. Restoration Phase

Once osseointegration is successfully achieved, the final phase of the treatment involves the placement of the permanent dental restorations, including crowns, bridges, or dentures, onto the dental implant poles. These restorations are custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a lifelike appearance and optimal functionality.

Cost Considerations

The cost of dental implants in Port Saint Lucie can vary depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed, any additional procedures required, the type of restoration chosen and the expertise of the dentist. If the cost of this procedure seems daunting, don’t worry – during your initial consultation, your dentist will provide you with a detailed breakdown of the anticipated costs associated with your treatment plan.

While dental implants may require a significant upfront investment hovering around thousands of dollars, they offer long-term benefits in terms of durability, functionality and aesthetics. Moreover, many dental practices in Port Saint Lucie offer flexible payment options and financing plans to help make dental implants more accessible to patients. A trustworthy dentist will be candid about pricing and work with clients to achieve a beautiful smile without undergoing significant financial hardship.

Getting Your Best Smile in Port Saint Lucie

Dental implants provide a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral health and function – and while the cost might be steep, there are ways to make the process work for you. By understanding how dental implants work and what the healing process entails, you can make informed decisions about your dental care.

If you are considering dental implants in Port Saint Lucie, schedule a consultation with Aspen Dental to discuss your options and embark on the journey towards a healthier, more confident smile.