You only get two chances in life when it comes to your adult teeth. The first is the set you were born with (free!). The second, and last, chance is dental implants, which can be costly but offer significant, permanent, improvements to your quality of life.
Dental implants can improve your comfort and mouth function by removing the need for removable prostheses (such as dentures), preventing further bone loss and enabling you to eat better.
The Procedure
A dental implant procedure is a dental operation to replace missing teeth. Rather than dentures (which can be easily be removed), dental implants are placed in your jawbone in a series of minor operations.
This operation can be broken down into two steps:
- A small piece of metal (almost screw-like) is put into the jaw bone where the missing tooth’s root was. Over time, your bone will grow around the metal which will ensure it is held securely.
- A few months later, an artificial tooth or crown is attached by your dentist to the metal to fill the gap of your missing tooth. This crown can be fully customised to look like your teeth in every shape, size and colour.
There is no special care required after surgery, though you may need to eat soft foods for awhile, to help your mouth heal quicker.
The end result – a smile that looks even better than your old one. Dental implants are designed to not only look like but act as a regular tooth.
Risk Factors
Dental implants are usually successful. However, in extreme cases, infection may occur or you may suffer from sinus problems as a result. If this does happen to you, please consult your dentist or a health professional as soon as possible.
Furthermore, not everyone may be eligible for a dental implant. Your chances of being eligible are higher if you don’t have any gum diseases, do not smoke and have a reasonably strong jaw bone. Your dentist is best positioned to advise you on your eligibility.
The Cost
The most common objection to full mouth implants is how expensive it can be. Many people want and need them but so many people feel that they cannot afford it.
Dental implants can cost thousands of dollars if you need or want your full arch (your teeth on the upper and lower jaw) replaced. It can cost $3,000 to $6,500 per tooth. These costs vary depending on where your dentist is based, the type of implant you choose and your dentist’s experience.
While expensive upfront, remember that dental implants can last up to 15 years, if not longer, if properly cared for.
Medicare does not cover dental implants, unless in the rare case it is deemed clinically necessary. Many private health insurance policies extras also do not cover implants, unless you select one of the higher cover level options.
This means it is often crucial to have an easy payment option of your own to afford dental implants.
If you are considering dental implants but are worried about the cost, MediPay allows you to have access to approved funds* for three months or longer while you consult with your doctors and dentists. You’ll feel a lot more confident going into consultations knowing that the choice is all yours and you won’t be limited by your savings.
If you choose not to use the funds there are absolutely no fees or costs involved.
Feel free to check your eligibility for a payment plan here.
Disclaimer: This article contains general comments and recommendations only. This article has been prepared without taking account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before taking any action you should consider the appropriateness of the comments made in the article, having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. If this article relates to the acquisition, or possible acquisition, of a particular credit product you should obtain and consider the relevant disclosure documents before applying for the product.
* All applications are subject to MediPay’s credit assessment criteria. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply.
