Chapel Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is home to Dr. James Furgurson, a dentist with advanced training in implant dentistry. Dr. Furgurson possesses many years of experience placing and restoring dental implants. While implants cost more than other teeth replacement solutions, dentists recommend dental implants nationwide. Dental implants offer more aesthetic and health benefits than traditional dentures and dental bridges alone.
The Cost of Dental Implants in Chapel Hill, NC
The first thing many people are concerned about is the cost of dental implants. We understand this can be a significant deciding factor for dental care. However, it cannot be answered easily, especially without a proper examination by Dr. Furgurson. Many factors will affect the cost of your implant treatment, including:
Preparation
Have you lost natural jaw bone in addition to your teeth? If so, you may need to have a bone graft. Do you currently have gum disease? You must have good oral health for your implant to be successful.
We may recommend bone grafting, tooth extractions, root canals, or gum disease treatment before we place the implants. Any of these treatments will increase the cost of your implant treatment. However, these treatments ensure that you are prepared for dental implants. You need to be healthy to prepare for a lifetime with your implants.
Number of Implants
The number of teeth you are missing will determine the kind of dental restoration you need. This will also determine the number of implants that need to be placed.
If you have full arches of teeth missing, we will not replace every tooth with a dental implant. We can secure an upper or lower denture with four or more implants. However, the dentist will need to insert each titanium post. The more implants you need, the more your oral surgery costs will be.
Location
Dental implants come in various shapes and sizes, and the prices of each will vary. Where your dentist places the implant along the jaw bone will determine the size of the implant.
We typically place a wide platform implant towards the back of the mouth. A standard platform implant is in the front. Dentists use mini implants when there is insufficient room between your remaining teeth. A dentist may also recommend mini implants if you do not have enough jaw bone for other dental implants.
Type of Restoration
The type of implant restoration you need depends on your number of missing teeth. Dental implants can secure a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. The cost difference between these is significant. We must also determine your restoration after we ensure that you are healthy. Dental extractions will increase the number of missing teeth.
Dental Insurance
The total cost you will be responsible for depends on the type of dental insurance you have and if your provider offers any coverage for implant restoration. Dental insurance can be confusing, and we will gladly file your claim to help maximize your benefits.
These factors will vary from patient to patient. This is why Dr. Furgurson encourages you to schedule a dental implant consultation. During this visit, he will thoroughly examine your entire mouth.
From this examination and consultation, he will determine:
- If you qualify for dental implants
- Whether or not you require any pre-treatments
- How many implants you need
- Where he will place your dental implants
- The type of restoration you need
We will also provide you with a cost of treatment. In general, you should expect to pay a few thousand dollars for a dental implant-supported crown that will replace a single missing tooth. You can expect to pay tens of thousands of dollars for a complete set of teeth for top and bottom denture implants.
To help our patients receive the dental care they need, we offer Interest-free financing through CareCredit. CareCredit can make financing manageable in small payments. Applying to CareCredit at or before your first visit with us will make paying for dental implants easy.
Are Dental Implants Worth It For Me?
Dental implants may require more prolonged treatment or more investment than other restorations. However, implants have many benefits over removable restorations. Dental implants:
- Preserve Natural Gums and Bone: Dentures and bridges lay on the gums. This means they do not support the health of the natural gums and jaw bone. Alternatively, an oral surgeon places dental implants in the jaw bone beneath the gums. The implant post acts as a new tooth root to support the teeth and gums.
- Do Not Require a Rebase or Relining: You must reline or rebase a removable denture over time. This is not the case with dental implants. Implants stay permanently in the jaw. After many years, you may only need to replace the crown, bridge, or denture.
- Provide Improved Bite Function: Because removable dentures lay on the gums, they easily slip around the mouth. You cannot eat hard or crunchy foods with dentures. Dental implants provide support so you can bite and chew without worrying about your restoration slipping.
- Offer a High Success Rate: Dental implants have a success rate of over 95 percent. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy ensures that your restoration lasts. Implants can last a lifetime, and restorations last longer with implant support.
The long-term investment in dental implants is worth the better quality of life they offer. You may find it hard to eat or speak comfortably with other restorations. Replacing your removable restoration over time may cost more than your initial investment for dental implants.
Get Dental Implants Today
At Chapel Hill Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we work with you to find the best and most lasting restoration for your smile. If you are thinking about dental implant treatment but are unsure of the cost, we can help. Schedule a dental implant consultation with us online or call 919.736.6175. We can help make dental implants affordable.
Learn more about treatment with dental implants on our website: