If your teeth are bothering you or in need of repair, there are a few common procedures your dentist may talk to you about. Each procedure is similar in that they help restore your bite and smile, but implants, crowns, and fillings are fundamentally different regarding how your teeth are repaired. Dental procedures also vary in cost. Costs of procedures are also affected by the extent of the procedure and whether the patient is insured or not. To make it easy for you to understand what’s required for each situation and whether the procedure is right for you, we’ve broken down each procedure below.
What are Dental Implants?
In relationship to dentistry, an implant is exactly what you would expect it to be. A false tooth that is perfectly implanted into your smile. Dental implants are surgical components that interface with the skull or jawbone. Implants can be used to support or act as an orthodontic anchor for crowns, bridges, facial prosthesis, and dentures.
What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown, sometimes called a cap, is a restoration option often recommended by a dentist. Usually, a dentist will recommend a dental crown for a tooth that has a root canal or has an exceptional amount of filling. Opting to place a dental crown could promote the ongoing health of the dental.
What are Dental Fillings?
A dental filling is also known as a dental restoration. It is a procedure that restores the integrity and function of a tooth. Usually, a filling or restoration is needed due to cavities or external trauma. The most common materials used in dental fillings include composite resin, gold, porcelain, or an amalgam.
What do Dental Implants, Crowns, and Fillings Cost?
As we mentioned above, dental procedure costs can vary greatly. But to get an idea, let’s assume the person who will be getting these procedures has some sort of basic dental insurance.
Implants aren’t usually covered by dental insurance. Despite being the favorite option of many dentists, the procedure is still considered elective. If coverage is provided, it’s usually only for the crown portion of the implant.
Dental crowns can be made of several materials including all porcelain, metal, and porcelain fused to metal. Materials, the average rate in your town, location of the affected tooth, and what type of insurance you have may affect the cost. If the crown is being placed for dental reasons and not cosmetic reasons, your insurance may pay up to 50% with a maximum of $1,000 to $1,500. On average, a dental crown can cost anywhere from $800 to $3,000.
Like other dental procedures cost of a filling is influenced by materials used and where the tooth is located. Other factors that could influence cost include whether the procedure is being done to fix a flaw or repair a cavity. After insurance, a working-class patient can expect to pay between $50 and $150 for an amalgam filling and $90 to $250 for a single, composite-filled filling.
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References:
Dental Implants | Medicine Net
How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost? | Cost Helpers Health
Dental Costs | Member Benefits