Many adult Americans are missing one or more teeth. The good news is that there are options to replace those missing teeth. One of the most popular options is Dental Implants. Although dental implants offer an effective solution, they are expensive. Many clinics advertise $399 Dental Implants to attract patients, but is it really possible?
Let us find out if $399 Dental Implants is a scam or a possibility.
How long do Dental Implants last?
Dental implants are a tooth restoration solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. The entire process takes several months and may extend to a year or more, depending on individual healing and response to the treatment. The average cost for a single dental implant is approximately $4,000.
Traditional dental implants consist of three main components:
- Implant Screw: This part is inserted into the jawbone and behaves as a replacement for the tooth root.
- Abutment: This connector secures the crown or other prosthesis to the implant screw.
- Crown/Prosthesis: This is the visible portion that replaces the missing tooth.
What is the Dental Implant Procedure?
The dental implant procedure includes several steps to ensure a successful outcome. First, an incision is made in the gums, and a hole is drilled inside the jawbone where the implant screw is placed, followed by closing the incision.
Over several months, the healing process, known as osseointegration, allows the jawbone to fuse with the implant. During this period, a liquid or soft food diet is recommended to avoid disturbing the implant.
Once healing is complete, the abutment is attached, and impressions are taken to create custom replacement teeth. The fabrication of these artificial teeth takes a couple of weeks.
Finally, the prosthesis is fitted and secured, resulting in a natural-looking and functional tooth replacement.
Why $399 Dental Implants Are Impossible?
Many dental clinics advertise $399 dental implants, which sounds like an amazing deal. However, it’s simply not possible to offer quality dental restorations like dental implants at such a low price.
Factors contributing to the cost of dental implants:
The Number of Implants: One of the major factors for higher cost is the number of implants needed. While the average cost is $4,000 per tooth, getting several implants at once might reduce the cost per tooth.
Type of Implant: There are 2 types of dental implants: conventional and mini. Mini dental implants are smaller and, therefore, less expensive than conventional implants.
Material of Implants: Implant screws are made up of titanium, but other metals can be used, which might cause allergic reactions in some patients. Zirconia is another option, though it is more expensive.
Material of Crown/Prosthetic Teeth: Porcelain is the most common material for prosthetic teeth because it looks and feels like natural teeth. While choosing composite resin can reduce the cost of your implants, it won’t last as long as porcelain, potentially costing more in the long run due to the need for more frequent replacements.
Location of the Dentist: The clinic’s location can impact the cost of treatment.
Experience/Expertise of the Dentist: A dentist’s experience and expertise also affect the treatment cost. A more experienced dentist charges more than a less experienced one.
The Dangers of Falling for $399 Dental Implant Scams
Some dental clinics advertise “discount” dental implants for just $399, but when you receive the bill, you find additional fees that exceed $3,000.
Here's why $399 dental implants are a scam:
- Hidden Costs: The low price doesn’t include procedures like consultations, X-rays, anesthesia, implant placement, abutments, and crowns. These hidden costs quickly add up, leading to a much higher final bill.
- Quality of Materials: High-quality materials such as titanium for implants and porcelain for crowns are expensive. Cheaper alternatives compromise durability and appearance, increasing the risk of implant failure.
- Dentist’s Expertise: Experienced and reputable dentists charge more because of their expertise and successful track record. Clinics offering suspiciously low prices may use less experienced practitioners, risking poor results.
- Comprehensive Care: A proper dental implant procedure involves several stages, including consultation, planning, surgery, and follow-up care. Budget clinics might cut corners on essential steps, jeopardizing the implant’s success and your oral health.
Low-Quality Services
The cost of dental implants is largely due to the expertise of the dentist performing the procedure. More experienced dentists charge higher fees. Sometimes, clinics advertise dental implants for $399, but this low price often only covers the implant device itself. The actual surgery and other necessary procedures incur additional fees, leading to a much higher overall cost.
Cheaper Materials
High-quality dental implants are made from titanium or zirconia. Both materials are biocompatible and safe for use in the body, with zirconia being a more premium option. Implants advertised for $399 often use cheaper, lower-quality materials that may not be as strong or safe and lead to health issues or implant failure.
Smart Alternatives to $399 Dental Implants
- Dental Insurance: More insurance providers are now recognizing the benefits of dental implants, leading to improved coverage plans.
- Financing Options: Consider financing options from companies like CareCredit or in-house dental financing to spread out the costs over time.
- Dental Tourism: Research and select reputable dental professionals in countries known for offering high-quality, affordable dental care.
- Discount Plans: Some clinics provide membership plans that offer significant savings on various dental procedures, including implants.
Conclusion
The promise of $399 dental implants can be very tempting, but it is important to understand that they come with hidden costs, lower-quality materials, and inexperienced practitioners. Therefore, it is always best to consult with a reputable dental professional to explore all available options and find a solution that suits your needs and budget.
Ready to explore reliable and quality dental implant options?
Don’t settle for questionable deals. Contact All Star Implants in GARNER, NC, where quality meets affordability. Book your appointment online now. Existing patients can call us at (919) 825-3855, and new patients can reach us at (919) 205-4666. Let’s transform your smile together!
FAQ
Are $399 dental implants a scam?
$399 dental implants come with hidden costs and may not cover essential parts of the procedure, leading to higher overall expenses.
What are the risks of opting for cheap dental implants?
Cheap dental implants use lower-quality materials and less experienced practitioners, which increases the risk of implant failure, health complications, and additional costs for corrections.
How can I afford quality dental implants?
Get dental insurance that covers implants or financing options like CareCredit, dental tourism for affordable care abroad, or discount plans offered by some clinics to make implants more affordable.
