The Variables That Affect the Cost of Dental Implant-Based Full-Mouth Restorations

Are Costs in Maryland Similar to Other States?

As we’ve talked about in other blog articles, dental implant-based full-mouth restoration is a transformative procedure that offers individuals a second chance at a confident smile and functional bite. But what are the costs associated with this life-changing procedure and how does the average person afford this transformation to a healthier and more confident lifestyle? Further, is Maryland the best state to tackle this renewal effort?

Because of the complexity and multiple moving parts associated with full-mouth dental restoration, it’s appropriate to first offer greater context for the procedure.

An Introduction to Dental Implant Full-Mouth Restoration

Dental implant full-mouth restoration, also known as full-arch implant reconstruction or full-mouth dental implants, is a comprehensive approach to replacing an entire arch of teeth in the upper or lower jaw. It involves the surgical placement of dental implants – titanium posts – into the jawbone, which serve as artificial tooth roots. These implants provide a sturdy foundation for attaching prosthetic teeth, such as dental crowns, bridges, or even full dentures.

This advanced procedure not only restores a patient’s ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently but also involves various variable costs that contribute to the overall expense. Understanding these variable costs is essential for patients and professionals alike to make informed decisions regarding treatment and financial planning.

Variable Costs in Dental Implant Full-Mouth Restoration

Here are just a few of the variables that affect cost:

• Number of Implants: The number of implants required significantly influences the cost of the procedure. More implants might be needed for a stable foundation in cases of bone loss or to support various types of prosthetic restorations.
• Implant Material: The material used for the implants can affect the cost. While titanium is the most commonly used material due to its biocompatibility and strength, some patients may opt for premium materials that can increase the overall expense.
• Preparation Procedures: Some patients may require additional procedures before the implant placement, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts to enhance bone volume. These preparatory procedures contribute to the overall cost.
• Location: The geographical location of the dental practice can influence costs due to variations in overhead expenses and local market trends. The costs of dental implants in Maryland, as in any state, can vary based on a variety of factors including the specific location within the state, the dental practice, the expertise of the professionals, and the individual patient’s needs. However, Maryland tends to have reasonable costs that are generally consistent with the national average for dental implant procedures.
• Surgeon’s Expertise: The experience and expertise of the oral surgeon performing the procedure can impact the cost. Keep in mind that highly skilled surgeons might charge higher fees for their services but their high level of proficiency is often worth the mitigation of risk and the quality of service and final outcomes.
• Sedation and Anesthesia: Depending on the patient’s comfort level and the complexity of the procedure, sedation or anesthesia services may be necessary, adding to the overall cost.
• Postoperative Care: The cost of postoperative care, follow-up appointments, and potential complications should also be factored into the overall expense.
• Laboratory Fees: Creating the prosthetic restorations, whether crowns, bridges, or dentures, involves laboratory work that incurs separate fees.

Navigating the Costs and Considerations

Patients considering dental implant full mouth restoration should take the following steps to navigate the costs and considerations effectively:

• Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a qualified oral surgeon or prosthodontist to discuss your specific needs, treatment options, and associated costs. Here at the Mugford Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants, we offer initial consultations to patients who think they could be candidates for full-mouth restorations.
• Comprehensive Treatment Plan: Work with your dental professional to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that outlines the number of implants, type of restoration, and any additional procedures required.
• Financial Planning: Discuss payment options and potential financing plans to make the procedure more affordable with your loved ones. Family members and close friends can often bring outside perspectives that support a prospective patient’s decision-making process. Some dental practices offer payment plans to help patients manage the costs over time.
• Second Opinion: Consider seeking a second opinion from another dental professional to ensure that you are making an informed decision.
• Long-Term Investment: While dental implant-supported full-mouth restoration might involve variable costs upfront, it’s essential to view it as a long-term investment in your oral health, overall well-being, and quality of life.

Financial Options for Dental Implant Procedures

Payment options for dental implants can vary depending on the dental practice, the specific procedures involved, and any financing options they offer. Here are some common payment options that patients might encounter when considering dental implants:

• Out-of-Pocket Payment: Many dental practices accept direct payment for services rendered. This includes paying the full cost of the dental implant procedure upfront or in installments as treatment progresses.
• Dental Insurance: Some dental insurance plans may provide coverage for dental implants, especially if they are considered medically necessary rather than purely cosmetic. Coverage varies widely, so it’s crucial to review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and to what extent. It is important to note that The Mugford Center is a fee-for-service clinic and as such is considered out-of-network. That said, we often assist our patients in submitting claims to their dental insurance provider to help them get their maximum potential reimbursement.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): If you have an FSA or HSA through your employer, you might be able to use these funds to cover dental implant costs. These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, including dental treatments.
• Payment Plans: Many dental practices offer payment plans or financing options to help patients manage the cost of dental implant procedures. These plans allow you to spread out the payments over an extended period. Some practices partner with third-party financing companies that specialize in healthcare financing.
• Credit Cards: Using a credit card to pay for dental implant procedures is an option for those who can manage the payments and are comfortable with the associated interest rates. Some dental practices might offer promotional financing through credit card companies.
• Dental Membership Plans: Some dental practices have membership plans that offer discounted rates for various treatments, including dental implants. These plans often involve an annual fee and can help reduce the overall cost of the procedure.
• Healthcare Loans: There are specialized healthcare financing options available through various financial institutions. These loans are designed to cover medical and dental expenses and may offer competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
• Personal Loans: Patients might consider applying for a personal loan from a bank or credit union to cover dental implant costs. Personal loans can offer fixed interest rates and set repayment periods.

Next Steps

Before proceeding with any payment option, it’s important to:

• Discuss Options: Speak with the dental practice’s financial coordinator to understand the payment options they offer and how they work.
• Understand Terms: Make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions of any financing plan or credit arrangement, including interest rates and repayment schedules.
• Consider Long-Term Costs: While payment plans or credit cards can help spread out costs, remember to factor in any interest or fees that might accrue over time.
• Check Eligibility: If you plan to use insurance, FSAs, HSAs, or financing, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.
• Shop Around: Consider obtaining cost estimates and payment information from multiple dental practices to compare options.

Most dental insurance providers will not cover the entire implant procedure. Be sure to check with your dental insurance provider to see if they can cover a portion of your treatment. Our helpful staff at the Mugford Center will do their best to help you with any insurance questions. We are committed to making every effort to provide you with the finest periodontal and surgical care at the most convenient financial options.

As part of our exceptional care and dedication to patients, we assist our patients in submitting claims to your dental insurance provider to help you get your maximum potential reimbursement. As mentioned above, it’s important to note that The Mugford Center is a fee-for-service clinic and as such is considered out-of-network. By not taking insurance, it allows our team to make the best diagnosis and treatment plans without the, often, higher pricing that can come from being in-network with dental insurance companies. We can submit insurance claims on behalf of our patients to all insurance companies, with exception of HMOs. Keep in mind that coverage varies depending on your specific plan. Plans vary widely in terms of which procedures are covered and what percentage of the fee is paid.

For your convenience, The Mugford Center accepts:

• Cash
• Check
• Debit cards
• Major Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover)
• Care Credit: Care Credit allows patients to make low monthly payments for affordable care. With this flexible payment option, patients can pay for their dental implant treatment over a designated period of time.

When considering payment options for dental implants, it’s essential to choose an approach that aligns with your financial situation and allows you to receive the necessary treatment without causing undue stress on your budget.

It’s also important to note that costs can change over time, so it’s recommended to consult with dental professionals directly to get the most accurate and up-to-date cost estimates for your specific situation.

In sum, the costs associated with full-mouth restorations supported by dental implants are wide-ranging and highly subjective to the personal case of each individual. Things such as preparation procedures (bone grafting, for example), the implant materials to be uses and the type of prosthetic will all impact your total cost and there’s not a good way to know in advance what your case variables are, until you come in for an initial consultation. When you come in for your consultation at the Mugford Center, the team will take a 3-D CAT Scan image of your mouth and your anatomy to determine your candidacy for dental implants. If you are having pain, are missing several teeth or are unhappy with your conventional dentures, dental implants may be the best option for you.

While the variable costs associated with the procedure may seem overwhelming, understanding the factors that contribute to these costs can help patients make informed decisions and plan their finances accordingly.

So, if you’re considering a dental implant procedure in Maryland, give us a call today to get started with an initial consultation to assess your current oral situation and the variables that will affect your costs. Dr. Mugford or Dr. Bruce will perform a thorough dental examination to help you understand your case and your financial options. Call us today to schedule your initial consultation: (410) 260-0790.