Are You Choosing the Right Specialist for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are life-changing—they restore your smile, improve oral health, and boost confidence. But choosing the wrong provider can lead to complications, additional costs, or even implant failure.
So, who is best qualified to do dental implants?
Finding the right implant specialist is essential for long-term success, and affordable options exist—even if you don’t have insurance!
This guide will explain who is best qualified to perform dental implants, how to choose the right provider, and how to save money on treatment.
Who Is Best Qualified to Do Dental Implants?
Several types of dental professionals can place implants, but not all have the same level of training or expertise.
1. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (Highest Level of Expertise)
What They Do:
- Specialists in complex dental surgeries, including implant placement, bone grafting, and extractions.
- Typically complete 4–6 years of additional training after dental school.
✅ Best For:
✔ Patients with severe bone loss or complicated cases.
✔ Those needing bone grafts, sinus lifts, or full-mouth restoration.
2. Periodontists (Gum and Bone Specialists)
What They Do:
- Experts in gum disease, soft tissue health, and bone structure.
- Perform implant surgery with a focus on gum and bone preservation.
✅ Best For:
✔ Patients with gum disease or bone loss requiring implants.
✔ Those needing gum reshaping or tissue grafting before implants.
3. Prosthodontists (Tooth Replacement Experts)
What They Do:
- Specialize in restoring missing teeth with crowns, bridges, and implant-supported dentures.
- Focus on creating natural-looking, functional implants.
✅ Best For:
✔ Patients needing full-mouth reconstruction or implant-supported dentures.
✔ Those wanting the most aesthetic, natural-looking results.
4. General Dentists with Implant Training
What They Do:
- Many general dentists receive training in implant placement.
- Some complete additional certification courses, but experience varies widely.
✅ Best For:
✔ Patients needing straightforward implant procedures.
✔ Those looking for a more affordable implant provider.
Pro Tip: If your general dentist offers implants, ask about their experience and training before committing.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants are an investment, but prices vary based on location, provider expertise, and additional procedures.
Average Cost of Dental Implants
| Type of Implant Procedure | Estimated Cost (Per Implant) | 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: All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants provide a permanent full-mouth solution at a lower cost than individual implants.
How to Save Money on Dental Implants With Insurance
Many dental insurance plans do NOT fully cover implants, but you can still reduce costs:
✅ Check Your Plan’s Coverage – Some policies cover implant-supported dentures or parts of the procedure.
✅ Use Your Annual Maximum – Most plans cover up to $3,000 per year—spread treatment across two years to double your benefits.
✅ Combine Medical & Dental Insurance – If tooth loss was due to an accident or medical condition, medical insurance may cover part of the cost.
✅ Request a Pre-Treatment Estimate – Know exactly how much insurance will cover before committing.
Important: Medicare does NOT cover dental implants, but Medicaid may in some states.
No Insurance? Here’s How to Get Affordable Dental Implants
If you don’t have insurance, you can still get top-quality implants without paying full price.
Join a Dental Membership Plan – Get 30-50% off implant procedures at participating dental offices.
Visit Dental Schools – Receive treatment from supervised dental students at a lower cost.
Consider Medical Tourism – Many patients save 50-70% by getting implants in Mexico, Costa Rica, or Thailand.
Apply for Payment Plans – Many providers offer 0% interest financing or low monthly payments.
Example: Instead of paying $30,000 upfront, break it down into $500/month over five years!
Save Thousands With a Dental Membership Plan
One of the best ways to save on implants is by joining a dental membership plan.
How It Works:
- Pay a low monthly or annual fee.
- Get 30–50% discounts on major procedures—including implants!
- No waiting periods, no claim denials—just instant savings.
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.
A Real Story: How Mark Saved $12,000 on Dental Implants
Mark, a 60-year-old veteran, was quoted $35,000 for full-mouth implants. That price felt impossible without insurance.
Determined to find a better deal, he:
✔ Joined a dental membership plan, reducing his cost by 40%.
✔ Used financing, making affordable monthly payments.
✔ Found a discounted provider on The Patient Marketplace.
Final cost? $23,000—saving him $12,000!
Lesson learned: Dental implants CAN be affordable if you know where to look!
Take Action: Get the Best Dental Implant Provider Today
If you’re ready to restore your smile without overpaying, follow these steps:
✅ Visit ThePatientMarketplace.com to compare implant providers.
✅ Ask about a membership plan to save up to 50%.
✅ Apply for financing to spread out payments over time.
The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll have a confident, permanent smile!
FAQs About Who Is Best Qualified to Do Dental Implants
Who is the best type of dentist for dental implants?
Oral surgeons, periodontists, and prosthodontists are the most experienced specialists.
Can I finance dental implants?
Yes! Many providers offer low-interest financing or monthly payment plans.
What’s the most affordable way to get implants?
Consider dental schools, medical tourism, or membership plans for major savings.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, implants can last 20-30+ years—making them a smart investment.
