Confused About Who to See for Dental Implants? You’re Not Alone
You’ve lost a tooth (or multiple teeth), and you know that dental implants are the best solution. But now you’re wondering:
- What kind of dentist does implants?
- Who is the most qualified specialist for the job?
- How much will it cost—and how can I afford it?
Choosing the right dentist is crucial for a successful implant procedure. A skilled implant specialist can give you a lifelong, natural-looking smile, while an inexperienced one could cause complications and unnecessary expenses.
This guide will break down which dental professionals perform implants, how to choose the right one, and how to save thousands on treatment—even without insurance.
What Kind of Dentist Does Implants?
Several types of dental professionals are trained to place and restore dental implants.
1. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (Best for Complex Cases)
What They Do:
- Specialize in surgical procedures for the mouth, face, and jaw.
- Handle bone grafting, sinus lifts, and complex extractions.
- Ideal for patients with severe bone loss or advanced surgical needs.
✅ Best For:
- Patients who need advanced surgical procedures before implant placement.
- Individuals requiring full-mouth reconstruction.
Pro Tip: If you need bone grafting before implants, an oral surgeon is the best choice.
2. Periodontists (Gum & Bone Specialists)
What They Do:
- Specialize in gum and bone health.
- Perform implant placement and soft tissue management.
- Ideal for patients with gum disease or weak jawbone structure.
✅ Best For:
- Patients with receding gums or periodontal disease.
- Those needing bone preservation before implant surgery.
Pro Tip: If you’ve had gum disease, a periodontist is the best choice for implant placement!
3. Prosthodontists (Tooth Replacement Experts)
What They Do:
- Focus on restoring and replacing missing teeth.
- Specialize in implant-supported crowns, bridges, and dentures.
- Work alongside oral surgeons or periodontists for aesthetic restoration.
✅ Best For:
- Patients who need full-mouth reconstruction with implants.
- Those who want the best cosmetic results.
Pro Tip: If you want natural-looking, high-quality implant restorations, choose a prosthodontist!
4. General Dentists with Implant Training
What They Do:
- Many general dentists receive specialized training in implant placement.
- Can perform straightforward single-tooth implants.
- Often collaborate with oral surgeons or periodontists for complex cases.
✅ Best For:
- Simple single-tooth implant cases.
- Patients looking for a more affordable option.
Pro Tip: Always check if your general dentist has extensive implant training and experience before choosing them.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants varies based on specialist fees, additional procedures, and the type of implant used.
Average Cost of Dental Implants (Per Tooth & Full Mouth)
| Type of Implant Procedure | Estimated Cost (Per Tooth) | Full Mouth (Upper & Lower) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Implant (Crown + Post) | $3,000 – $6,000 | N/A |
| Implant-Supported Dentures | $12,000 – $25,000 per arch | $24,000 – $50,000 |
| All-on-4 Dental Implants | $15,000 – $30,000 per arch | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| All-on-6 Dental Implants | $20,000 – $35,000 per arch | $40,000 – $70,000 |
Pro Tip: If you need multiple implants, consider All-on-4 or implant-supported dentures to save money!
How to Save Money on Dental Implants (With or Without Insurance)
Dental implants can be expensive, but there are ways to cut costs significantly.
1. Use Dental Insurance (If Available)
✅ Check Your Coverage – Some plans cover implant-supported dentures or crowns.
✅ Use Your Annual Maximum – Many policies cover $1,500–$3,000 per year—spread treatment over two years to maximize benefits.
✅ Combine Medical & Dental Insurance – If tooth loss was due to an accident or medical condition, medical insurance may cover part of the cost.
Tip: Not all plans cover implants, but membership plans can help you save even more!
2. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan can save 30-50% on implants without dealing with insurance restrictions.
How It Works:
- Pay a low monthly or annual fee.
- Get instant discounts on implant procedures.
- No waiting periods, claim denials, or hidden fees.
Example Savings:
| Procedure | Without Membership | With Membership | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Implant | $5,000 | $3,000 | $2,000 |
| Full-Mouth Implants | $40,000 | $24,000 | $16,000 |
Find a participating dentist at ThePatientMarketplace.com.
3. Consider Dental Schools
Many dental schools offer discounted implants by allowing student dentists to perform procedures under expert supervision.
Potential Savings: 30-50% off traditional costs!
4. Look Into Medical Tourism
Patients often save 50-70% on implants by traveling to Mexico, Costa Rica, or Thailand for treatment.
Pro Tip: Choose clinics with strong reviews and experienced professionals.
A Real Story: How John Saved $15,000 on Dental Implants
John, a 58-year-old small business owner, needed full-mouth implants but was shocked by a $45,000 quote.
Determined to find a better deal, he:
✔ Joined a dental membership plan, reducing his cost by 40%.
✔ Used financing, making low monthly payments.
✔ Found a discounted provider on The Patient Marketplace.
Final cost? $30,000—saving him $15,000!
Lesson learned: Affordable implants ARE possible!
Take Action: Find the Right Implant Dentist & Save Thousands
If you’re ready to restore your smile without overpaying, follow these steps:
✅ Visit ThePatientMarketplace.com to compare implant specialists.
✅ Ask about a membership plan to save up to 50%.
✅ Apply for financing to break the cost into monthly payments.
Your dream smile is within reach—start today!
