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A few years ago, one of my patients came to me with an infection in his front tooth. Unfortunately, the tooth could not be saved and had to be removed. As with most people, my patient did not want to go toothless or wear a denture for the rest of his life so he opted for an implant. The implant replaced his missing front tooth as though it were his own.

So, a dental implant is essentially a metal tooth root that is placed in the jaw bone, then a crown is placed on top of the metal root so that it resembles another other tooth.

My Patient with Front Tooth Implant Replacement

Let’s continue with my patient. His teeth were worn down very short. So, I built up his teeth with white filling material so that it looks natural, then replaced the front tooth with a dental implant. He can speak and chew normally with the implant tooth. Furthermore, it has a very natural look.

Cost

As the dental implant is designed specifically for you and there are many different variations of implants (replace one tooth or a few teeth) the costs can vary considerably. However, let me give you a general guide to our most common situations. The cost of the consultation and x-rays are around $300. The cost of the dental implant from beginning to end usually starts from $4,450.

Time

The time from beginning to end can vary considerably based on your initial circumstance. However, most commonly it takes about 3-6 months. If the dental implant is for your front tooth, then we will always make sure you have some sort of temporary tooth in place whilst everything is healing.

I’m often asked “what can be done to improve the look of my teeth?”

Well, 99 times out of 100 we can do something to help you out. However, firstly I’d like to know what it is that concerns you about your teeth. Some of my patients are worried about the colour, some are concerned their teeth are too crooked, some are worried about them wearing away. I will do a thorough assessment of your teeth. Together we will then come up with a plan that you’re happy with. If you have any questions, please ask away.

My Patient with Worn Down Teeth

Let me to tell you about one of my patients who had worn down teeth and what I did for him. His lower natural teeth and upper false teeth were all chipping and wearing down. I covered his lower teeth with white filling material and made him a new upper denture. As you can see the result is very natural and he thoroughly enjoys his new smile.

Cost

It’s impossible for me to tell you the cost without looking at your teeth. However, we will always endeavour to come up with a plan that you’re comfortable with and suits your budget. Furthermore, we offer payment plans and options to pay off the treatment in stages.

Generally, when my patients come to visit me for the first time they come either because (1) they have pain in their tooth or jaw, or (2) because they would like me to perform a check-up and clean. I will explain each one a little further.

If Your Concern is Pain in Your Tooth or Jaw

Please tell me about this pain that you’ve been experiencing. I may ask you a few questions, take any necessary x-rays and perform a few tests to help me diagnose the issue. Once I have worked out exactly what the issue is we can generally start treating during that appointment so that I can provide you some relief from the pain. If further appointments are necessary I will give you my recommendation.

If You Would Like Me to Perform a Check-up and Clean

Firstly, I’d like to know what you’re concerned about. Whether you’d like me to make sure your teeth are healthy, or you want to improve the look or chewing ability of your teeth. I will then take a good look at your teeth, take any necessary x-rays, photos and perform a few tests. Then we can have a chat about your teeth and how we can address your concerns. If you have questions, you are more than welcome to ask me.

Generally, one of our hygienists will be doing a scale and clean on your teeth. Just like cardiologists specially trained in treating heart conditions, our hygienists are specially trained in cleaning your teeth to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Cost

It is difficult for me to give you an exact cost as the issue and thus the treatment will differ greatly from one person to another. However, if you are in pain you are generally looking at around $98 for a consultation and x-ray. Typically, most treatment to get you out of pain is anywhere from $100-300.

For an examination it will typically be around $150-300 depending on the x-rays and tests needed. A scale and clean will be around $135-190.

If you have health insurance coverage for dental, then they will pay a portion of the fee. Please bring along your member card as we have a HICAPs machine, which means that claims can be made immediately and you just have to pay the difference.