As a form of elective surgery, the cost of dental implants can often be considerably higher than that of a simple crown of cap. Prices can vary greatly depending on the specific procedure, doctor and expectations of the patient. The cost of a single implant can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, with some individuals spending tens of thousands of dollars on a complete rehabilitation. On average, patients can expect to spend around $1500 per tooth for a quality dental implant.

The process is two-fold, and involves inserting the implant itself within the patient's jawbone, then restoring the decayed or missing tooth with an artificial one. The result is a healthier looking, safer, more natural and longer-lasting smile. When one considers this fact, the additional cost of dental implants usually makes sense.

The materials used to produce modern dental implants are costly themselves, not to mention the entire team of dental specialists needed to properly conduct the procedure. But when one considers that, unlike most parts of the human body, teeth can maintain their youthful allure for one's entire lifespan with proper care, dental implant prices are more than justified.

Unlike the insertion of dental caps or bridges, which often have an adverse effect on adjacent teeth or gums, implants offer far superior long-term benefits. The resulting winning smile from a bridge can be short-lived compared to that of the high-tech dental implant, which does not rely on support from neighboring teeth and consequently causes no short or long-term damage.

The results are safer, more attractive and very consistent in adults with generally good oral health. Candidates who may be lacking good dental and oral hygiene are recommended to consult an expert before seeking dental implants. As always, precautions must be taken before electing to undergo any surgery and a responsible practitioner will only operate on a health candidate.