Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth. The procedure involves a surgical component where the implant post replaces the missing tooth’s roots. An artificial tooth or crown is then connected to the implant, giving it the ability to function and appear just like the natural teeth. In the past, dentures and bridges were the preferred tooth-replacement solution. Patients are now finding that dental implants are a fantastic alternative which resolve many of the limitations and challenges associated with other tooth-replacement treatments. Because dentures rest on top of the gums, they can easily slip out of place or fit poorly. The jawbone also fails to be stimulated and commonly results in bone loss. Another benefit associated with implants is that patients can eat the foods without limitations required with traditional dentures.
Surgical Procedure
The dental implant is surgically placed directly into the jawbone. This offers the restoration a strong and incredibly secure foundation. The implant essentially replaces the missing tooth’s root. The titanium implant fuses to the jawbone during the natural healing process and ensures the implant remains securely in place. There are significant limitations and challenges in obtaining a good fit when a bridge or dentures are used to replace missing teeth. Implants are specially designed to be strong and withstand the extreme forces of chewing. It is highly unlikely for implant materials to experience damage or decay. Implants have a high success rate with a low risk for complications.
Implant Candidates
Criteria below make a patient a good candidate for receiving dental implants:
- Fully mature jawbone
- Good oral health
- Missing one or more permanent teeth
- Has adequate jawbone required to support the implant or can receive bone grafting if needed
- No underlying health issues which may impact the body’s ability to heal
- Does not use tobacco products or smoke
- Wants to avoid the limitations and challenges associated with dentures
- Willing and able to follow the post-procedure guidelines and limitations during the healing process
Implant Procedure
The dental implant placement procedure is typically completed in stages. The initial step involves a surgical component, which is an outpatient procedure. Healing time is required before the patient can proceed to the next step. Below is a summary of the dental implant procedure:
- Damaged teeth are removed
- Jawbone is prepared for grafting, if needed
- Dental implant is surgically placed in the jawbone
- The bone heals and fuses to the implant
- Abutment is placed
- Artificial tooth or crown is attached to the abutment
- Dental professionals make any necessary adjustments or modifications
The entire implant process can take a few months from start to finish. Much of the treatment time involves giving the body time to heal which forms a strong base. The time required for treatment will vary for each patient. Various procedures and the materials used can also have an impact on the overall treatment time. Certain components of the procedure may be able to be combined.
Cost
Dental implants generally cost more than other tooth-replacement procedures. On average, implants cost about $1,500 to $3,000 per tooth. Additional procedures like bone grafting will increase the overall cost. Implants are not typically covered by dental insurance, meaning patients pay out-of-pocket for most or all of the procedure. Because dental implants are the best solution for replacing missing teeth, many patients are interested in discussion financing options.
Financing
Financing options are fortunately available for many patients who are interested in receiving dental implants. Many patients cannot afford the upfront cost for treatment. In many cases, patients must have a good credit score to qualify for financing options which can prevent some patients from qualifying. The following is a summary of financing options which may work for patients with a low credit score.
Subprime Lender Financing
Subprime lender financing may be offered to patients who do not qualify for a standard credit-based medical loan. It is common for standard lenders to require a minimum credit score of 640 for approval. One benefit of subprime lenders is that they can take a deeper look beyond the patient’s credit score. Criteria including the patient’s employment history, income, and other details can be used by the lender. This information gives lenders a more comprehensive understanding of the risk associated with lending to the particular patient.
There are some limitations and challenges with subprime lender financing. In many scenarios, these have higher interest rates and patients will also incur origination fees. It is possible that this will place additional financial strain on the patient. In addition, patients must work with the lender opposed to the dental office who is providing service. The third-party lender will also establish the terms of the loan.
Personal Loans
Patients with a low credit score may also choose to apply for a personal loan. A personal loan can either be secured or unsecured. Secured loans typically require a form of collateral such as real estate or a vehicle. Collateral can help increase the amount of the loan and improve the patient’s chance of being approved. The downside of a personal loan is that the lender can repossess the collateral if the patient becomes delinquent or default.
Unsecured personal loans, in comparison, do not require collateral. When an unsecured loan becomes delinquent, it is sent to an outside collection agency for follow up and collection of funds. Lenders take on additional risk with unsecured loans, meaning the loan is harder for patients with bad credit to qualify for. Patients who fail to qualify for a credit-based repayment plan may also have a hard time receiving approval for an unsecured personal loan.
Flexible Pay-Over-Time Plans
Pay-over-time plans are another option for patients with a low credit score who do not qualify for traditional financing options. This can include lenders who are willing to work directly with patients who are seeking financing for a costly procedure such as dental implants.
Lenders who offer this type of financing use a specialized underwriting process focused on available data. This financing process can consider more information than a simple credit report in order to determine the level of risk associated with the loan. The information collected is then used by the lender to determine the loan agreement terms, which will likely include a down payment. In addition, the information is used to determine the interest rate. Many of these types of payment plans require patients to set up a direct debit payment. This helps automate the payment process.
Patients with a low credit score who are considering dental implants should contact the office today to discuss financing options. The office can offer a monthly payment plan or suggest third party lenders who can offer financing. It is critical for patients to receive the treatment they need to restore their smile.