Dental services can be pretty expensive. This is especially true for complicated procedures, such as dental implants. Along with other reasons, this is why a lot of people avoid a trip to the dentist.
Fortunately, there are ways to eliminate such a financial concern. In this article, you will learn more about the procedure and get some tips on how to get affordable dental implants.
What Is a Dental Implant
As the name suggests, a dental implant is needed to artificially replace one or several missing or irreparable teeth. Using a screw that is made of material that is compatible with the human body, such as titanium, it attaches to your jawbone and gum tissue to serve as a stable base for the artificial tooth.
Unlike dentures, dental implants do not need any adhesive. They also look very natural, which is why they are the most preferred option by people who are looking for a permanent restoration solution to their missing or badly damaged teeth.
Cost of Dental Implants in Australia
Like with any other dental treatment, a tooth implant cost can vary depending on several factors. These include your location, the clinic you are going to, and the number of teeth needed to be replaced. It can also cost more if your condition requires other procedures, such as a sinus lift or a bone graft.
To give you a general idea, though, a typical dental implant could cost you between $3,000 and $7,000 per tooth. But if you need a sinus lift or a bone graft, it could cost you up to $12,000 for the total price.
To know how much you are going to pay for such a procedure, you should ask the dentist during your initial consultation.
How to Get Affordable Dental Implants
Dentists charge different fees, so the cost of one clinic’s services is not necessarily the same as another. Regardless, there are ways to find the most affordable dental implants available in your area.
Use Your Insurance
When you do your “dental offers near me” search on Google, consider dentists who honour the current insurance policy that you have. However, you should understand, first, which procedures it covers.
Generally speaking, there are two types of dental insurance in Australia:
- General dental insurance – only covers preventative care for common dental problems, like regular check-ups, cleaning, fillings, and plaque removal.
- Major dental insurance – covers expensive and more complicated procedures, such as root canals, crowns, and dental implants.
Sign Up for a Dental Plan
Signing up for a dental plan will allow you to enjoy upfront discounts on any treatment, including a dental implant. In a way, it works like a subscription to a certain service. You pay a membership fee in return for the rebates you get when having a dental appointment.
A dental plan can even work in conjunction with your insurance, which means more savings on your part. However, the dentist you choose should also be enlisted in such a programme to provide you with such a privilege, so make sure to confirm this information before booking your treatment.
Use Your Credit Card
One way to avoid paying for the total amount of your treatment upfront is using your credit card. So, when calling a Brisbane dental clinic, for example, ask if they accept such a payment option.
The downside to this method, though, is that you will be dealing with the interest rates. Nonetheless, you can always take advantage of the rewards and bonuses your credit card company provides.
Register as a Volunteer Patient at Dental Schools
This will significantly cut your expenses on getting expensive dental procedures—if not get them for free! However, these schools would specify what treatments they offer under their teaching programme, so check if the one you require is included.
Aside from the methods mentioned above, of course, you can always negotiate with the dentist during your initial consultation. You would be surprised at how much you can save by trying to broach your concern with these kind professionals.
Final Thoughts
Dental treatments can offer you life-changing benefits. Aside from good oral health, it also gives back that perfect smile that helps you retain your confidence. So, when the need arises, you no longer have any reason to delay that dental appointment. Besides, you already know the ways to get affordable dental implants.
However, it is important to visit a qualified and approved dentist who can offer you the best solution for your dental problem. With thousands of certified dentists across the country, there is sure to be one near you.
For more useful tips and information on health and fitness, check out the rest of our articles!