When considering whether or not to opt for dental implants in Australia, the first question most patients ask is, “how much will it cost?” Then comes the question about how much of that cost will be covered by their health insurance. The answers can be different for each patient, due to many factors.
There are lots of health insurance funds offering dental cover, but there are also many different levels of cover. Even if your fund covers dental implants, it is not likely to cover the entire cost of the procedure, only a small part of it.
The bottom line in most cases is that you should be prepared to pay a significant gap between what your health insurance will cover and what you will need to cough up for perfect teeth.
What Do Implants Cost?
The costs of dental implants in Australia will vary and depend on what you have done, but generally patients will pay an average of from $3,500 to more than $5,000 per tooth. However, at Asthetik in Maribyrnong, Victoria, you can have implants for just $2,500 per tooth.
Wherever you choose to have your implants, you need to take into consideration the following:
- The surgeon’s methods and expertise
- The kinds of materials used in the implant post, abutment and crown
- And which laboratory is used
It’s best to ask up front just how much your dental implants are likely to cost because they’re not cheap. Most dentists in Australia offer quotes with item numbers and treatment plans so you can check with your health insurance fund to work out how much they will cover, and what your out of pocket expenses are likely to be.
How Long Before I Can Return to Work After My Dental Implant Surgery?
Planning is important if you’re going to have dental implant surgery. You need to know how long you’ll be off work, for instance, so you can plan for it. The time it will take to recover from the surgery and treatments will depend on how many implants you decide on having, or need. However, dental implant patients are pleasantly surprised to learn that some recipients can return to work the very next day.
Be aware though, that your recovery time depends on the kind of implants you need and the extent of your surgery. Although you might feel fine after your dental implant procedure, you should realise that your body has to adjust to the implant to allow it to integrate. So, you’ll be advised to avoid strenuous activity after your implant surgery to help with the healing process. Generally, patients are advised to take at least two days off work after their implant procedure, and to take into account any other health problems you have, which you should discuss with your doctor beforehand.
If you feel dizzy or groggy it means your body hasn’t recovered so you need more rest. You may also experience other symptoms which mean the anesthetic or sedative haven’t worn off, so it’s best not to drive or use heavy machinery. Take a week off work if you are undergoing fixed bridges with your tooth implants or a whole mouthful of teeth replaced.
Apart from the need to recover from the general anaesthetic, you might suffer swelling and bruising. To help with this, your dentist can prescribe medication for you before your surgery, which may help to lessen any pain, bruising and swelling while your gums heal.
Should I Go Overseas For My Dental Implants?
Opinions are divided when it comes to overseas options for dental implant surgery. While the cost is usually significantly lower than in Australia, most experts agree that if you choose that route, you are on your own. Your dental implant surgery won’t cover any of your treatment, and you may find it very hard if not impossible to get travel insurance to cover you.
In the unfortunate, (but not unheard of) event that you are not happy with the result, there’s nothing you can do about it, and you will be made aware of this from the start.
If you’re considering overseas dental implant treatment:
- Do some thorough research online before you choose where to have your treatment
- Read reviews thoroughly and research the dentist’s qualifications.
- Check their before-and-after pics of patients’ teeth
- Try to visit the clinic or hospital before you decide
- Ask for costs, a timeframe, and a tooth implant treatment plan
- Remember when booking your dental implants overseas that you might need further treatment. so take enough time off work, and book flights that take this into account.
- Realise that you might lose any savings from going overseas for treatment if you have to return for further work on your implants
If you decide to have implants done in Australia:
- If you have extras in your health insurance policy, it won’t cover everything.
- You’ll save more than the anticipated implant costs
- Your teeth and your health will be under expert care
Disclaimer
Our information is for all Australians. We try to make sure it’s accurate and up to date, however we can’t guarantee that it will always apply to you. Find out what our responsibilities are, and be aware that results may vary per individual and any procedure caries its own risks and benefits. Prior to proceeding an assessment is required to determine suitability, we welcome you to seek a second opinion from an appropriate practitioner. Ask us if a dental implant is the right choice for you.
Author Bio
Alex Morrison
founder of Integral Media, a digital marketing agency
