Question: I have been searching online for weeks to find something that can help save me money off dental implants.   Two years ago, I got into a car accident and knocked out all my front teeth, top and bottom.

The accident was deemed my fault; therefore, I received no assistance restoring my teeth, apart from my limited dental insurance plan through my job.   I’m determined to overcome the discomfort of wearing a partial top and bottom as I long for the feeling of natural teeth again.

However, I need 12 implants at around $1000.00 to $1500.00 per tooth. The cost quickly becomes too high for a regular Joe like me. I am far from being considered poor, but I do not have over $ 12,000.00+ lying around.

Any advice would be welcome.  I did not even mind waiting periods as long as I knew I would be covered for the dental Implants I wanted at the end of the waiting period.

Reply: I understand that finding affordable dental implants can be challenging, especially considering your circumstances. One option to explore could be to see if dental schools are in your area. Many dental schools offer discounted rates for procedures, including dental implants, as they are performed by students under the supervision of experienced professionals. This could significantly reduce the cost of your treatment, bringing you one step closer to your goal of natural teeth.

Additionally, there are other avenues to explore. Inquire about financing options with dental implant providers. Some offices offer payment plans to help make the cost more manageable over time. This can provide a sense of security, knowing that you can spread the cost of your treatment over a period that suits you. It’s also worth examining whether charitable organizations or foundations assist individuals needing dental care, offering further reassurance that there are options available to you.

A few dental insurance plans (mostly PPO or Indemnity insurance ) offer limited benefits for implants. With insurance, it becomes about reading the plan’s terms and conditions to determine if implants are excluded benefits or provide some coverage.

Examples of limitations could read as follows:

• We will not pay for implants (artificial teeth implanted into or on bone or gums), their removal, or other associated procedures. Still, We will credit the cost of a pontic or standard complete or partial denture toward the price of the implant-associated appliance, i.e., the implant-supported crown or denture. The implant appliance is not covered.
• The initial installation of a prosthodontic appliance and/or implants is not a Benefit unless the prosthodontic appliance and/or implant, bridge, or denture is made necessary by natural, permanent teeth extraction occurring when the Enrollee was under the plan.
• The initial placement of any prosthodontic appliance or implants, unless such placement is needed to replace one or more natural, permanent teeth extracted while the Enrollee is covered under the plan. The extraction of a third molar (wisdom tooth) will not qualify under the above. Any such denture or fixed bridge must include the replacement of the extracted tooth or teeth.  
• D6000 – D6199 VIII Implant Services: Implant services are covered by the General Dentist only. Implants are limited to no more than once for the same tooth position in five (5) years. Implants and Implant abutments are limited to no more than two (2) per year.

If you come across limitations or exclusions under a dental insurance plan and need clarification on how it affects you, call member services to confirm. It is crucial to understand what is or is not covered than to guess and guess wrong. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your dental health, especially about dental implants, as many dental insurance plans do not offer benefits, and you want to verify this before buying.

Affordable Dental Implants: Making Oral Health Investment Affordable

At DentalBenefit.com, we are dedicated to providing a wide range of dental insurance options to meet your specific needs. Our comprehensive website includes a helpful blog where you can find valuable information on dental insurance and dental health care. Whether you are looking for a free dental insurance quote or seeking to purchase dental insurance, our knowledgeable team is here to assist you. Feel free to call our office at 310-534-3444 for personalized guidance and support in selecting the best dental insurance plan.

This post will delve into dental implants and explore how you can make this significant investment in oral health more affordable with or without dental insurance. We aim to provide informative and persuasive insights to guide you toward finding the best solution for your dental care needs.

Understanding the Cost Factors of Dental Implants

Dental implants serve as a durable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. These artificial tooth roots are surgically implanted into the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for supporting individual replacement teeth or dental bridges. This innovative dental procedure not only restores the appearance and functionality of natural teeth but also helps to preserve the jawbone. By integrating seamlessly with the surrounding bone tissue, dental implants offer a secure and comfortable fit, allowing individuals to confidently eat, speak, and smile without concerns about slippage or discomfort. The cost of dental implants can vary for several reasons:

1. The type of implant: Choosing the correct type of dental implant is crucial as various options are available, such as endosteal and subperiosteal implants. The cost of each type can differ significantly based on factors like the materials used, the intricacy of the procedure, and any additional preparatory treatments necessary. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional to determine the most suitable type of implant based on individual circumstances and fully understand the associated costs.

2. Location: The cost of dental implants may differ depending on your location. Factors such as geographical location and the standard of living in that area play a crucial role in determining the price of dental implants. For example, dental implants may be higher in urban areas with a higher cost of living than in rural areas with a lower cost of living. It’s essential to consider these location-based variations when planning for dental implant procedures.

3. Additional procedures: In some instances, supplementary procedures like bone grafting or sinus lifts might be necessary before the placement of implants. These additional steps ensure the jawbone is strong and healthy enough to support the implants. However, it’s important to note that these extra procedures can increase the overall cost of dental implant treatment.

4. Dentist’s experience: The skill and experience of the dentist or oral surgeon conducting the procedure is a crucial factor influencing the cost. A highly skilled professional with extensive experience in the specific procedure may charge a higher fee for their expertise. Conversely, a less experienced practitioner might offer a lower cost but may not provide the same level of skill and expertise. Therefore, when considering the price of a dental procedure, it’s essential to consider the dentist’s experience and credentials.

5. Materials used: The choice of materials for dental implants plays a significant role in determining their overall cost. High-quality materials, such as titanium or zirconia, are often associated with higher costs due to their durability and biocompatibility. Conversely, lower-cost options may be available but might not offer the same longevity or aesthetic appeal. Discussing the available materials with your dentist is essential to find the option that best aligns with your needs and budget.

When considering dental implants, scheduling a consultation with a qualified dentist or oral surgeon is crucial. They can provide personalized insights into the various factors that influence the overall cost of dental implants for your specific case. By seeking professional guidance, you can understand the treatment plan, the materials used, any additional procedures required, and potential insurance coverage, ensuring that you are well informed about the financial aspects of the treatment and can make decisions that align with your budget and oral health goals.

Dental Insurance for Dental Implants.

Regarding dental insurance plans, it’s essential to understand that coverage for dental implants can vary significantly. While some dental insurance plans offer limited benefits for dental implants, many others exclude coverage for these procedures altogether. The reason behind this discrepancy often stems from the high-cost factors associated with dental implants, making it difficult for insurance providers to offer comprehensive coverage.

Dental insurance plans that do provide benefits for dental implants usually fall under PPO or Indemnity insurance categories. However, it’s crucial to note that the extent of coverage for implants is typically limited. This means that individuals seeking dental implant procedures would need to carefully review the terms and conditions of their insurance plan to determine the extent of coverage available.

On the other hand, numerous dental insurance plans explicitly exclude coverage for dental implants due to the high cost of the procedure. Insurance providers may deem dental implants elective or cosmetic procedures, making them ineligible for coverage under standard dental insurance plans.

It’s essential to recognize that excluding dental implant coverage from many insurance plans can pose financial challenges for individuals needing such dental procedures. The high out-of-pocket costs associated with dental implants can create barriers to accessing essential dental care, particularly for individuals who have experienced traumatic dental injuries or severe dental issues.

Consequently, individuals may need to explore alternative options for managing the cost of dental implant procedures. Other alternatives include seeking financial assistance through financing options offered by dental implant providers or exploring discounted rates for procedures at dental schools, where supervised students perform treatments at reduced costs.

Despite the challenges posed by limited coverage for dental implants under standard dental insurance plans, individuals need to remain informed and proactive in seeking viable solutions for their dental care needs. By understanding the complexities of dental insurance coverage and exploring alternative avenues for affordable dental implant procedures, individuals can effectively make informed decisions to address their oral health needs.

Dental School May be an Option for Dental Implants

When considering affordable options for dental implants, exploring the possibility of receiving treatment at a dental school in your area can be a worthwhile avenue to pursue. Many dental schools offer discounted rates for procedures, including dental implants. Students typically perform these procedures under the close supervision of experienced professionals, providing an opportunity to receive quality care at a reduced cost.

One of the key benefits of seeking treatment at a dental school is the opportunity to benefit from the expertise of aspiring dental professionals and their experienced mentors. The supervision of procedures by seasoned professionals ensures that patients receive thorough and diligent care and the added security of oversight throughout the treatment process.

It’s important to note that the specific services offered and the availability of treatment at dental schools may vary based on each institution’s curriculum and educational focus. For instance, some dental schools may prioritize specific procedures over others based on their academic objectives, which could impact the speed at which you may be able to receive treatment. However, for individuals seeking affordable dental implant options, exploring the potential for treatment at a dental school can be a strategic and cost-effective approach to restoring oral health.

Using a Credit Card May be an Option for Dental Implants

When considering dental implant financing options, it’s essential to inquire about available opportunities with dental implant providers. Some providers may offer monthly payment plans that can help you manage the costs of dental implants over time, making the financial burden more manageable.

Additionally, exploring dedicated medical credit cards such as CareCredit can be viable. These credit cards are specifically designed for medical and dental services, including dental implants. It’s essential to compare interest rates and terms across different credit card options to determine the most suitable choice for your financial situation.

While using a credit card to finance dental implants may result in paying more in interest over time, it allows you to receive the essential dental treatment while spreading the cost into affordable monthly payments.

By exploring these financing options, you can take a step closer to achieving the dental care you need without facing significant financial strain.

Dental Discount Plan May be an Option for Dental Implants

Are you considering dental implants but worried about the cost? DentalBenefit.com offers dental insurance and dental discount plans to help you save on dental care expenses. A dental discount plan can be a viable option for reducing the cost of dental implants, with average savings of around 20% or more. By choosing a dental discount plan, you can make significant strides toward achieving your goal of natural teeth at a reduced cost.

It’s important to note that a dental discount plan is only valid with providers in the plan network. Before purchasing a discount plan, confirming that dental providers within the network offer dental implant services is crucial. While a discount plan can provide substantial savings, there’s no guarantee that a provider in the network will offer every service or procedure you require. Therefore, it’s essential to thoroughly explore and understand the plan’s details and confirm the plan providers and what services they offer before deciding.

With DentalBenefit.com, you can explore various dental insurance and discount plan options, gaining valuable insights to help you make informed choices about your dental care. Our knowledgeable team is dedicated to providing personalized guidance and support to assist you in selecting the best plan to meet your specific dental care needs. Whether you are seeking a dental insurance quote or looking for ways to make dental implants more affordable, we’re here to help you.

At DentalBenefit.com, we are committed to providing a comprehensive range of resources to help you navigate the world of dental insurance and dental care. We aim to offer informative and persuasive insights to guide you toward finding the best solution for your dental care needs, whether through dental insurance, discount plans, or other cost-saving options. Contact our office at 310-534-3444 for expert assistance in making your oral health investment more affordable.

It is important to start flossing your child’s teeth when they touch each other around two and a half years old. Flossing makes a big difference in the prevention of cavities. Generally, when your child starts a kinder garden, they should be able to begin flossing their teeth. Though they may not yet have the skills to do a good job, you should supervise and give tips and pointers now and then to encourage good oral health care. Just like adults, a child should floss their teeth every day. A good time is right before they go to bed, but that is important as long as they floss each day.

I am going to be having our first child. My husband and I currently do not have dental insurance, but I told him to start looking for it before the baby is due so we will have something in place when he needs to use it. Would we buy a family dental insurance plan that includes a newborn?

Reply: With dental insurance, three people or more would typically be listed as a family plan. So, if you are shopping for dental insurance for all three of you, you want to review the family cost of the dental insurance plan. You could buy a dental insurance plan for a couple if you wish, then add your child to the plan when they start getting their first tooth or when they are one year old, as a general rule of thumb.

When the first tooth appears, you will want to start cleaning your baby’s teeth twice daily. Until your child is older, around one, you can use a soft wet cloth to clean your baby teeth and gums. You can use a baby toothbrush once your child is around a year old. Make sure you use a non-fluoride toothpaste and only need to use a dab. Only use toothpaste with fluoride once your child can spit and knows not to eat or swallow the toothpaste. It would help if you took your child to the dentist at or around their first birthday. 

For teething: Give your baby a cold teething ring or frozen washcloth. You can also rub your baby’s teeth and gums with a clean finger. You should use Baby Orajel to help numb the baby’s gums. You can also ask your doctor for some Tylenol for the baby. However, you never want to give your baby any aspirin since aspirin may cause Reye’s syndrome, a severe illness. While the cause of Reye’s syndrome remains unknown, some research has established a link between Reye’s Syndrome and the use of aspirin. It has been advised by the U.S. Surgeon General and the American Academy of Pediatrics that aspirin and combination products containing aspirin not be given to children under 19.

My sister needs better oral and dental health care. Her teeth look yellow to me, and when I ask if she has seen a dentist, she says she can not afford to see one. Are there cheap dental insurance plans out there? 

Reply: It’s understandable that you want to help your sister improve her oral and dental health care. However, making sure she is open to receiving your help before recommending dental insurance plans is essential. Some people may feel offended or embarrassed when others suggest that they need assistance, particularly when it comes to dental care. 

That said, if your sister is open to your suggestion, consider reviewing dental HMO insurance plans. HMO plans are generally more affordable than PPO plans and other types of dental insurance. Most HMO plans provide free or low-cost preventive dental care, which can help your sister maintain good oral health and prevent more serious dental problems.

Under HMO plans, the dental services covered are listed on a fee schedule, so your sister can see the cost of needed dental care ahead of time. This can make budgeting for dental care more manageable and help her avoid unexpected expenses. Additionally, many HMO plans also offer discounts on certain dental procedures, which can help your sister save even more money.

Overall, if your sister is open to receiving your help, reviewing dental HMO insurance plans can be a good starting point for finding affordable dental care options.

Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth Include:

• Severe and continuous toothache.
• Fever.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold.
• A bad taste in your mouth.
• Having bad breath and redness or swelling of your gums.

These are just a few symptoms of having a tooth abscess. Note that you only need to have some signs of tooth abscess to have an abscessed tooth. I recommend seeing a dentist to confirm if it is an abscessed tooth or a different dental issue.

I was looking at the Delta Dental HMO plan in California. I wanted to know how it works—besides picking a dentist in the network, which I know is required. What other things should I know about getting an HMO dental plan?

Do I have to pay in full and wait for a refund? I would like to know since that was the last plan I had thought work was like. I did not like paying the dentist in full and then waiting a month for my money back. It was good coverage, but I did not always have the money at the time I needed dental work.

Reply:  Thank you for your question about California’s Delta Dental HMO plan. With an HMO dental plan, you must choose a dentist within the network, and your service cost is based on a predetermined fee schedule. This means that you will know upfront what your out-of-pocket costs will be for each covered service, which can help you budget your dental care. 

Unlike other plans that require you to pay the full fee upfront and then wait for reimbursement, with an HMO plan, you will only be responsible for your portion of the cost at the time of service. This can be a significant advantage if you don’t have the funds to pay for dental work upfront. 

It’s important to note that with an HMO plan, you may have some restrictions on the services you can receive and the providers you can see. However, an HMO plan can be an excellent choice if you are looking for an affordable dental plan with predictable costs.

I need to get affordable braces for my 12-year-old

My dentist told me my son should get braces for an overbite. I am in no rush, but I would like to get him the braces he needs. My dental insurance plan does not offer coverage for braces. The dentist told me not to start orthodontic treatment until I have dental insurance. Where can I find dental insurance for kid braces? If I can find something affordable, I can get my son the necessary braces.

Reply: I understand your concern about finding affordable dental insurance that covers braces for your 12-year-old son. Dental insurance plans vary in coverage options, but some low-cost dental insurance options cover orthodontic services, including braces.

You can start by researching dental insurance plans that specifically include orthodontic treatment. You may also want to check with your employer, as some companies offer dental insurance as part of their employee benefits package. Additionally, you can consider dental discount plans, which can provide reduced rates for orthodontic services.

It’s important to note that some dental insurance plans may have waiting periods before orthodontic treatment is covered, so be sure to review the plan details carefully before enrolling. With some research and careful consideration, you should be able to find an affordable dental insurance plan that covers braces for your son.

I am currently residing in Kentucky and will be moving to California shortly. I am searching for a dental insurance plan that requires a low monthly payment. The plan will cover myself and my child. Can you advise whether I should opt for a family plan or a couple plan? Also, can you suggest some affordable dental insurance plans with good coverage and a low monthly premium?

Reply: With most insurance plans, you can buy a couple plan for two people (in your case, you and your child). For a low monthly cost dental insurance plan, I suggest you review dental HMO insurance plans, as they are the more affordable option for dental insurance.

Some of the popular dental insurance plans with low monthly rates we offer are Delta Dental and California Dental. You can compare their plans and choose the best suits your needs and budget. It’s always a good idea to read the terms and conditions carefully before making a final decision.

I do not have dental insurance, and I need two dental crowns. My dentist also told me that I should have a small cavity filled before it became a more significant issue. I just do not have the money needed. My dentist quoted me $1500.00 for two crowns and fillings. Where can I get the necessary dental work for half that cost? Because that is about all the extra money I have right now to spend on my teeth care.

Reply: Here are a few options to think about.

1) You can buy dental insurance before starting any dental work. Dental insurance will help reduce the cost of dental care. Just ensure there are no waiting periods for the services you need. 

2) You can shop out your dentist and see if there are dentists in your area that would be more affordable.

3) You can see about going to a dental school if there are any in your area. Dental schools would be much more affordable, but they may have restrictions, so calling and confirming their process is essential. 

4) Ask your dentist if he offers a payment plan option so you can make payments. Or see if other dentists provide payment plans. 

5) Look into dental discount plans and see if dental providers in your area accept them. You may not save 50% for the services you need, but discount plans are a low-cost option, and they will help reduce your dental costs, hopefully making them more affordable for you.

6) Looking into seeing if you have any dental clinic near you. Dental clinics are typically more affordable and charge based on your ability to pay.

My mom is 74 and has all her teeth. She gets health benefits, but it does not seem like she receives much dental care for her teeth. I do not understand why her dental care is so lacking in her Medicare. Few dental providers take her Medicare, and it covers only the small stuff. She has no significant dental needs, but I do not want her to get any in the future, and I know she has not seen a dentist for at least a year now. What can I do for my mom’s dental care?

Reply: If you feel your mom’s Medicare benefits for dental care may not be sufficient, you can consider purchasing an individual dental insurance plan separately. Buying an individual dental insurance plan will provide her additional coverage for dental services that may not be covered under her Medicare plan. You can research different available dental insurance options and choose a plan that best suits your mom’s dental needs and budget. It is also a good idea to consult with her dentist to see what services and treatments she may need in the future and choose a plan that covers those procedures. Investing in a dental insurance plan ensures that your mom receives the best possible dental care and prevents any future dental problems.  

I have an abscessed tooth that is just killing me. There is no way I can have a root canal because they want $1500.00 plus the crown cost, and there is no possible way I can afford that. I would like to know if I go to the dentist to get the tooth pulled. Will it affect my other teeth all that much? The tooth I want to pull is in the back. 

Reply: It’s essential to seek immediate treatment for an abscessed tooth to prevent further complications and protect your oral health. With that said if you decide to have the tooth pulled, it shouldn’t affect your other teeth significantly, especially if the tooth is located in the back. However, it’s always best to discuss your concerns with your dentist and ask any questions you may have about the procedure. A dentist can also provide you with options for affordable dental care that fit within your budget.

You may want to find a dentist that will provide the correct dental services to save the tooth but offers a payment plan option. Another option would be looking into buying dental insurance. I suggest reviewing HMO insurance plans as they typically do not have waiting periods for the services you will be needing. Dental insurance will help make cost of dental care much more affordable.  

An abscess is a painful infection at the tooth’s root or sometimes between the gum and the tooth. You can get an abscessed tooth due to untreated tooth decay. However, you can also get abscessed if you have trauma to your teeth, such as breaking or chipping your tooth, gum disease, or gingivitis. If you have an abscessed tooth, you must see your dentist immediately. The abscess or infection may spread from the tooth root to the bone, causing a significant oral health issue.

Treatment of an Abscessed Tooth

The treatment for an abscessed tooth depends on the severity of the infection. Your dentist may need to drain the abscess and prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the infection. In severe cases, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth. Sometimes, the tooth may need to be extracted if it cannot be saved. It’s essential to seek immediate treatment for an abscessed tooth to prevent further complications and protect your oral health.