Is It Possible to Save Money with Dental Implants?

Dentist Blog

If you need to have a tooth replaced with a prosthesis, would you like to take the removable option where you receive dentures that need to be taken out each night? Or would you prefer the natural and long-lasting option of a dental implant? While not everyone is a candidate for dental implants, their appeal is rather logical. The prosthetic tooth is essentially bolted into your jawbone, giving it a true sense of permanence. Only you and your dentist will know that you actually have the implant. One of the few downsides to dental implants is the cost. Since the implantation requires a minor surgical procedure before the prosthesis can be fitted, it's probably not something you want to cut corners with. But having said that, is it possible to save money if you need a dental implant?

Dental Tourism

Travelling to a country where certain medical procedures are available at a substantial discount is becoming a popular option. You get to combine a holiday with your elective medical procedure, although you need to think carefully before you choose this option. Remember that dental implants require more than one visit, since the metallic base needs to be implanted, followed by sufficient healing time. Only when the tissues in your jawbone have fused with the metallic base can the prosthetic tooth be fitted. So generally, you will need to make two trips. You will need to choose a reputable company to take care of the arrangements. So what should you be asking when deciding upon a company?

• In which facility will the actual procedure be carried out in the foreign country? What level of training do the staff have?
• Do they have any testimonials from their previous clients?
• What is their contingency plan in the unlikely event that something goes wrong?
• Will you have access to a dentist for aftercare, whether it's in back in Australia or in the country where the procedure was carried out?

Dental Training Clinic

There's a cost-effective option that's much closer to home. Is there a university in your town that has a School of Dentistry? Such schools often have a clinic where senior students treat members of the public, all under the close supervision of teaching staff (who are qualified dentists). Such clinics offer services at a substantially discounted rate when compared to most dentists. It can be difficult to obtain an appointment (due to popularity), so you will need to plan ahead. It also removes a lot of uncertainty, as you will be able to visit the clinic (or indeed, even your own dentist) in the unlikely event that there are any complications.

Government Rebates

The government has made changes to the rebates available when it comes to dental services. While it has been suggested that the scheme will detrimentally affect the existing Child Dental Benefits scheme, eligible adults will be able to access more dental services than before. Generally only available to Health Care Card holders, you could potentially have a dental implant fitted at a discounted rate under this scheme if a dentist views it to be medically necessary. Be warned though, it's been speculated that these changes will lead to increased waiting times to see a dentist who will be providing services under the scheme. This means it's important to make an appointment with an eligible dental clinic as soon as possible.

So while a dental implant can represent a significant investment, it's good to know that there are some options that allow you to save money, without necessarily cutting corners.

5 August 2016