Dental implants are one of the most revolutionary improvements in dentistry, improving the lives of millions of patients with missing teeth. False teeth are nothing new, but today’s implants are remarkable compared to their predecessors. You might even end up with a better smile than you had before! Unfortunately, the work that goes into installing implants does not come cheap. The search for affordable dental implants can be frustrating since they can cost thousands of dollars.
But getting dental implants is a safe, permanent way to restore a natural-looking smile and natural chewing abilities compared to regular dentures. The advantages are impressive, but finding an experienced dentist to install cheap dental implants can be challenging. Here’s some advice on how to find low-cost dental implants near you.
How to find cheap dental implants
Consider your area
One of the most important factors for finding affordable dental implants is where you live. Cities vary in cost, so you may want to do some research to compare the costs of procedures in your city versus neighboring areas. While it’s easy enough to find a dentist, landing one who offers, affordable dental implants can be another story.
If you live in a large city, there’s a good chance it will be more difficult for you to find affordable dental implants. Big-city dental practices often have more overhead since they have to spend more money on rent and expenses. As a result, they’re less likely to offer low-cost services.
When searching for affordable dental implants, it’s also best to check reviews. The goal is to find a dental specialist with affordable rates and good results. The last thing you want is to waste money on multiple appointments because you didn’t see a good dentist the first time. A little research can go a long way in your search for low-cost dental implants.
Dental tourism
Believe it or not, some people opt to travel abroad to find low-cost dental implants. While this may be less of an option at the moment (thanks, COVID-19!), it should be noted that dental tourism is very real. Many Americans and Canadians have decided to fly to countries including Mexico, Thailand, Hungary, and Spain to save money on dental implants.
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Of course, if affordable dental implants require multiple trips, then the cost adds up. Getting everything done on one trip is ideal, if possible. Dental tourism is an unorthodox way to obtain low-cost dental implants, but it is still quite popular. That said, you may be better off trying to find a dentist in your area first.
It can also be hard to know what quality of care to expect in another country. If you’re interested in dental tourism, be sure to do some research to find out how dentistry is regulated and whether you would feel safe there. If something goes wrong, you may not have access to the protections you would in your home country. Be sure to consult with a medical professional before making a decision about dental tourism.
Dentistry schools
Dentistry schools often offer dental implant procedures since dental students require hands-on experience before they graduate. Some of these schools offer services for lower-income individuals so that you could be eligible for implants at a much lower price. You can expect to pay about 50% of the rate that you would pay for dental implants at a private practice.
There are some drawbacks, though; it might take much longer than usual, and the process might have to take place during working hours. That said, the work is usually of excellent quality, and it’s a great way to get professional yet low-cost dental implants. If you are worried about trusting a student with your smile, consider that students and professors are both involved in the process.
Looking for discounts
When it comes to finding affordable dental implants, remember it can take time. There are plenty of discounts out there, so it’s worth checking out platforms like Groupon and any other discount websites you can find. You may even be able to get a discount on dental implants if you refer another patient to a clinic.
Sometimes you can also receive discounts on teeth implants if you agree to pay upfront. Other dental offices might also give you a discount on multiple implants if you require them. When looking for affordable dental implants, just make sure the brand you choose is reliable.
Dental plans
One way to afford cheap dental implants near you is to sign up for a dental discount plan. These plans allow patients to pay monthly or yearly fees to receive discounted dental care. Some dental plans offer more discounts than others, so you should figure out which ones are best if you’re looking for affordable implants in particular.
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The one drawback here is that you might be limited in terms of which doctors and dentists you have access to. Still, it’s a great way for patients to receive low-cost implants. You might find that this shaves hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars off your implants!
Dental societies and charitable organizations
Some dental societies and charities offer free or low-cost dental care to low-income individuals, and a little bit of research into these programs can go a long way. It may be possible to obtain affordable dental implants this way, although what’s available in your area will vary.
Financing
Some companies out there actually finance dental work, which is an option for those who might need some time to pay off their low-cost dental implants. These businesses often allow the patient to receive dental implants and then make monthly payments. Of course, any financing company requires some due diligence regarding their fees and interest rates.
Note that you might not be able to find a company that will finance your tooth implants without a decent credit score. If you have bad credit, you may want to explore other options. Either way, financing can be a fantastic way to receive affordable dental implants. Carecredit is one company that offers financing for low-cost dental implants, but there are plenty of others.
Insurance
There are some situations where insurance might actually pay for your affordable dental implants. However, most dental insurance carriers consider dental implants a cosmetic procedure and not medically necessary. While some carriers might cover a portion of the costs, it’s more likely you will only be covered for bridges or partial dentures instead.
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However, if dental implants are the only way to improve your oral health, your insurance may cover it. This is something you should look into before making a dentist appointment to avoid any surprises.
Know the alternatives
While affordable dental implants are possible, some lower-cost alternatives might work for you. Bridges and partial dentures are usually popular alternatives to dental implants, but they might not be the best choice for everyone. It’s also possible the dentist near you doesn’t necessarily offer these alternatives.
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Dental bridges are often used for multiple missing teeth and can last an average of 15 years. Like implants, they also don’t need to be removed for cleaning. Some might choose this option if they cannot find low-cost dental implants. Bridges are also often a quicker process compared to dental implants. However, bridges can also cause stress on both the teeth and jaw down the line. Make sure to speak to a dentist about whether this option is right for you.
How can I find affordable dental implants near me?
Most importantly, you should dedicate time to research low-cost dental implants near you. This allows you to compare dental implant rates between different dental practices. You can google phrases like “cheap dental implants near me” or look up dentistry schools in your area to inquire about whether they offer low-cost dental implants.
Some of the methods outlined here are better than others. Dental tourism, for instance, should only be used in situations where the case isn’t severe. Regardless, enrolling in a dental savings plan or finding some dental care financing can be quick ways to receive affordable dental implants.
No matter where you live or what discounts you’re looking for – finding a dentist you trust to install dental implants will take some time. Use these tips, do your research, and find an experienced dentist near you on Opencare to get the care you deserve.
