Finding Affordable Dental Implants in Vancouver Washington
Dental implants are an effective and popular option to replace missing teeth. However, if you’re like many patients, you may be concerned about the cost. While finding affordable dental implants in Vancouver Washington can be a challenge, it’s possible if you explore different strategies. Let’s take a look at the dental implant procedure, the types of dental implants available, and the various insurance and payment plans you can use.
What Are Dental Implants?
When you have missing teeth or you have loose dentures, dental implants are a long-lasting option. Dental implants are essentially artificial teeth made out of materials like titanium and zirconium oxide. Dentists surgically place these artificial teeth into your mouth to replace your missing, loose, or damaged teeth.
Types of Dental Implants
There are different types of dental implants commonly used in Vancouver Washington.
These include:
Endosteal Implants
An endosteal implant is the most common type of implant available. These implants are designed to replace missing teeth, and dentists place them into your jawbone. Dentists then place a crown or bridge on top.
Subperiosteal Implants
A subperiosteal implant is placed on top of the jawbone rather than inside the jawbone. This procedure is often performed for individuals who don’t have enough bone mass to support an endosteal implant.
How Does Dental Implant Procedure Work?
Having a dental implant involves a few steps. First, our dentists will evaluate and take X-rays of your teeth to get a better look at the problem area. This gives a comprehensive picture of the condition of your teeth and jawbone and lets us determine if you are a good candidate for a dental implant.
If you do need a dental implant, our dentists will customize a treatment plan for you. This plan includes the number of implants you will need, where they will be, and the type of procedure. At this stage, we will discuss the treatment plan and talk about any concerns you may have about the process.
During the procedure, your damaged tooth will be removed. Next, an implant will be inserted into or on top of your jawbone, and the gum tissue will be surgically closed over the implant. The implant, which replaces your original tooth root, should fuse with the surrounding bone tissue. This stage is called osseointegration.
Dentists also add abutments, which connect the implant post with your artificial tooth. The healing period can differ from person to person, but it typically lasts for three to six months.
After the abutment, dentists will get impressions of your mouth so they can create the crown or bridge. The crown is the visible portion of your tooth, and it is usually made out of porcelain or zirconium. Once the crown is ready, it is attached to the abutment. A dental implant is designed to permanently replace a missing or damaged tooth.
The dental implant procedure can be categorized into two types: single-stage and two-stage implants. At Ranieu Dental, we offer both single-stage and two-stage implants, depending on the case.
Single-Stage Implants
When you have a single-stage implant procedure, the implant and abutment are placed in your jawbone in one procedure. The abutment sticks out of the gums, which means the dentist can place the crown over the top.
Two-Stage Implants
When you have a two-stage implant, dentists will place the implant below the gumline and let the gum tissue fuse with the implant. Once this healing phase takes place, you would return for a second surgery so your dentist can attach the abutment.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
If you have missing, weak, or damaged teeth, getting dental implants in Vancouver Washington can be a great option. Why choose dental implants to replace a missing or damaged tooth?
Natural Looking
Dentists can make implants resemble your teeth, so you don’t have to worry about a tooth looking out of place in your mouth. You can speak and smile without feeling self-conscious.
Eliminate Bone Loss
In addition, the alveolar bone in that area may deteriorate as there is no chewing or daily stimulation taking place. When you get a dental implant, though, you can preserve the structure of your jawbone and reduce bone loss in that area.
Restores Chewing Ability
Having a damaged, weak, or missing tooth can make it incredibly difficult to chew in that area. A dental implant allows you to chew your food normally, which can be beneficial if the tooth you were missing was a molar.
Permanent
They are stable and permanent, and you won’t have to worry about them falling out, like dentures. You can have dental implants for one tooth, a couple of teeth, your back molars, or even a set of teeth.
Easy to Care For
Dental implants are easy to maintain as they don’t require any kind of special care. You don’t need any kind of cleaning solutions either. Simply brush and floss them like you would your other teeth.
Long-Lasting
With proper care and maintenance, your dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown section, which is the visible part of the artificial tooth, can last for about 10-15 years. A dentist can accurately determine when you should replace it.
Keeps Surrounding Teeth Stable
A missing tooth can result in your other teeth shifting out of their proper positions to fill in the gap. With a dental implant, though, your neighboring teeth can remain stable and intact.
Restores Your Speech
If your missing tooth is in the front, your speech may be negatively affected. A dental implant restores your speech so that you can articulate your words perfectly. Replacing a front tooth can also improve your smile.
High Success Rate
Dental implants have a success rate of 90-95%, so you can have peace of mind. There are factors that affect the success of dental implants, and these include the bone quality of your jaw bone, your age, and the location of the implant.
How Much Will My Dental Insurance Cover Implants?
Dental implants can be expensive, but it’s important to remember that your dental insurance will cover some or all of it. How much insurance covers depends on the type of insurance plan you have, whether you stay in-network, and the reason you’re having implants.
Typically, dental insurance plans may break dental implants into the following. And they may cover some of these services, but not all.
• Consultations
• X-rays
• Treatment before surgery
• Anesthesia
• The crown
Here are some areas of dental insurance plans to keep in mind when researching how much your insurance will cover:
Policy Terms
Dental insurance plans usually have policy terms. Some policies will cover 100% of the cost, especially if you’re an older adult and the procedure is necessary. Some insurance plans, on the other hand, will cover 50%. Finally, there are some plans that cover just a small percentage.
Reasons for Getting Implants
If you need a dental implant due to an accident, your insurance plan may cover most – if not all – of the procedure. However, some insurance plans see dental implants as a cosmetic procedure. If so, they may deny you coverage.
Maximum Benefit Limits
Dental insurance plans offer policyholders maximum benefit limits. This means there is a cap on the amount of coverage you get within a year. If the cost of the implant falls below your maximum benefit limit, you may be fully covered.
Pre-Authorization
Remember that every dental insurance plan is different. For some to cover your procedure, they may need documentation that having a dental implant is a necessity. You may need to submit X-rays and medical records to your insurance company in order to get coverage.
Out-of-Pocket Costs
If your insurance is paying 100% of the dental implant costs, then you won’t have out-of-pocket costs. However, some dental insurance plans have copayments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs. Talk with your insurance company and find out how much out-of-pocket costs will remain.
Network Providers
To keep the costs of dental implants from soaring, it’s always best to visit an in-network dentist. If an in-network dentist performs the surgery, your coverage will be higher and your out-of-pocket costs will be lower.
Will Humana Medicare Cover Dental Implants in Vancouver, WA?
For older adults, dental implants can be a necessity. For this reason, Humana Medicare may cover 100% of your dental expenses, up to your annual maximum benefit. There are different Humana Medicare plans, so check which plan you have.
If you are not sure which plan you have, call a licensed agent at Humana and say you are seeking coverage for dental implants. An agent will be able to tell you which Humana Medicare plans offer full or partial coverage. Humana also offers dental plans to federal employees and dental implants are covered as part of the insurance company’s prosthetics benefits.
Will United Healthcare Medicare Cover Dental Implants in Vancouver, WA?
United Healthcare Medicare offers different plans, and some plans cover 100% of your dental implant expenses up to your annual maximum benefit. Contact an insurance agent at United Healthcare to find out how you can get 100% coverage.
Ranieu Dental takes both Humana Medicare and United Healthcare Medicare.
How Much Will Dental Insurance for Non-Elderly Individuals?
For non-elderly individuals, there is what is commonly called 100-80-50 coverage. This means that 100% of preventive and diagnostic services are covered (routine cleanings, X-rays, and checkups), 80% of basic procedures are covered (fillings, root canals, and other basic procedures), and 50% of more complicated procedures (crowns, dental implants, bridges) are covered. Orthodontic services, such as braces, are usually partially covered. Periodontal care, such as treatments for gum disease, is partially covered as well.
There are also deductibles to think about. Many dental insurance plans will require that you pay a deductible before your insurance coverage starts covering any dental services. This deductible is an out-of-pocket expense.
Cosmetic dentistry, such as teeth whitening procedures or veneers, is not covered by dental insurance plans. If your dental insurance company decides that your need for dental implants is purely cosmetic, it will not cover the service.
There may also be copayments for some services. These typically aren’t very much. They may be something to the effect of $30 per dental visit. Check with your insurance plan to see if you have any copayments for dental services.
Besides the 100-80-50 coverage, most plans will cap the annual maximum benefit at about $1,500 a year. Once you reach that limit, you will be responsible for any additional dental costs. Keep in mind that 2024 is around the corner. Remember to use your unused dental benefits before they expire on December 31st. Speak to our dental insurance specialist to verify your unused insurance benefits!
Other Ways to Reduce Dental Implant Costs
Flexible Spending Account or FSA
A flexible spending account is money that your employer puts into a special account for healthcare services. You can then use this money to pay for many out-of-pocket healthcare services, including dental implants. However, some FSAs require that you use your balance by the end of the year. If you don’t, you may lose some of it. For 2023, you can carry up to $610 of your FSA balance. Any balance that remains will revert back to your employer.
In-House Dental Savings Plan
Not everyone has dental insurance or a flexible spending account. If you don’t have either, you can still pay for your dental implants with our in-house dental savings plan. At Ranieu Dental, we offer a dental savings plan that provides:
• 1 annual exam
• 1-full mouth x-rays
• 1-emergency visit
• 2-6 month cleanings
In addition, you will also get a members-only discount on additional treatments, even cosmetic dentistry services. You will also get:
• 15-20% off additional dental work
• $1000 off full treatment Invisalign
• $425 Zoom Whitening Treatment
Our in-house dental savings plan breaks down as follows:
• $299 for a single plan
• $575 for a two-person plan
• $752 for a family of 3
• $917 for a family of 4
Financing
These are not your only options. In addition to our in-house dental savings plan, Ranieu Dental also accepts Care Credit & Lending Club Payment as well.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How much do dental implants cost in Washington?
In Washington state, the cost of a dental implant will typically fall between $1,000 to $4,500, depending on the coverage you have and the city that you’re in.
How much do implants cost in Vancouver?
The average cost of a dental implant will cost anywhere between $1,000 to $3,000. If you have additional work done, or you need more than one implant, this will cost you more. Additional costs include the cost of your replacement teeth.
Who is the best person to do a dental implant?
When you get dental implants in Vancouver Washington, there are four qualified professionals who can perform the surgery.
• Oral or Maxillofacial Surgeons: An oral or maxillofacial surgeon is the most experienced professional if you need a dental implant. Oral surgeons specialize in surgery of the jawbone, teeth, and mouth. This means they can typically perform complex surgical procedures well.
• Periodontists: Periodontists specialize in the jawbone and gums. This specialized training provides them with some expertise when it comes to performing dental implants.
• Cosmetic Dentists: Since dental implants can fall under the category of cosmetic dentistry, cosmetic dentists often have the training to perform professional dental implant services.
• General Dentists: A general dentist can perform your dental implant, too. Some general dentists receive additional training or are specialized in more complicated procedures.
What hurts more: A tooth extraction or an implant?
Although a dental implant is a more complex procedure than a tooth extraction, both a tooth extraction and a dental implant can cause discomfort. However, at Ranieu Dental, we offer local anesthesia which can help manage the pain during any oral surgery. We also provide tailored instructions on managing pain after your procedure.
Our Dental Office Offers Affordable Dental Implants in Vancouver, Washington!
At Ranieu Dental, we offer a range of dental services, such as family, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry; and we use advanced dental technology like intra-oral cameras and digital X-rays to take scans. Under our restorative dentistry services, we provide dental implant services to customers who need to replace missing or damaged teeth.
We are aware that the dental implant service can be costly, so we do everything we can to help make it affordable. If your insurance doesn’t cover the entire procedure or most of it, talk to us about our in-house financing plan or other financing options that can make the process more affordable. As mentioned above, we advise our clients to use the money in their FSA account before the end of the year. To find out how you can pay for a dental implant, contact our team at Ranieu Dental for more information.