What costs more a root canal with bridges or implants?

Question

I've had several teeth removed over the years and now I'm putting too much wear on the teeth that are left. They have become loose and very sore, if I bite down the wrong way I go thru the roof in pain. My new dentist says I have the option of root canal and crowns and bridges or extraction with implants. Money was not discussed as she wants me to see a endodontist first. I have insurance but I don't know what it will cover, my visit the other day cost me $85.00 and she did nothing but look and take xrays. That was my copay! Half of the actual cost. I'm in pain and scared, I don't know what to do. We are talking 3 teeth. I'm on a very limited budget. Any suggestions? I would really appreciate any ideas. Thanks

Answer 1

First, I am sorry you are having so much pain. I know where you are coming from. Second I have done my research and Implants are REALLY expensive! It would be better for you to get bridges. Also, You have to be a good candidate for implants. A lot of time when you have had lots of dental work it damages the bone. I was born with a weakened and rotted jaw bone that causes all my teeth to rot. I am 23 and don't have even half of my own teeth still. I am looking at dentures right now because the pain just isn't worth it. I am TRULY sorry for your pain. It sucks, I know! Good luck to You!
Here's an article for you!


What Is a Dental Implant?
Provided by: Academy of General Dentistry
Last Updated: January 1, 2003

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root (synthetic material) that is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge in place. The benefit of using implants is that they don't rely on neighboring teeth for support, they are permanent and stable. Implants are a good solution to tooth loss because they look and feel like natural teeth.

Implant material is made from different types of metallic and bone-like ceramic materials that are compatible with body tissue. There are different types of dental implants: the first is placed directly into the jaw bone, like natural tooth roots; the second is used when the jaw structure is limited, therefore, a custom-made metal framework fits directly on the existing bone.
How do they work?

Strategically placed, implants can now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble real teeth.
Can anyone receive dental implants?

Talk with your dentist about whether you are an implant candidate. You must be in good health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. People who are unable to wear dentures may also be good candidates. If you suffer from chronic problems, such as clenching or bruxism, or systemic diseases, such as diabetes, the success rate for implants decreases dramatically. Additionally, people who smoke or drink alcohol may not be good candidates.
What can I expect during this procedure?

The dentist must perform surgery to anchor the "artificial root" into or on your jaw bone. The procedure is done in the dental office with local anesthesia. Medications may be prescribed for soreness.
How long does the process take?

The process can take up to nine months to complete. Technology, however, is trying to decrease the healing time involved. Each patient heals differently, so times will vary. After the screws and posts are placed surgically, the healing process can take up to six months and the fitting of replacement teeth no more than two months.
What is the success rate of implants?

The success rate for implants depends on the tooth's purpose and location in the mouth. The success rate is about 95 percent for those placed in the front of the lower jaw and 85 percent for those placed in the sides and rear of the upper jaw.
How do I care for implants?

Your overall health may affect the success rate of dental implants. Poor oral hygiene is a big reason why some implants fail. It is important to floss and brush around the fixtures at least twice a day, without metal objects. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your new implants. Additional cleanings of up to four times per year may be necessary to ensure that you retain healthy gums.
What is the cost of implants?

Since implants involve surgery and are more involved, they cost more than traditional bridge work. However, some dental procedures and portions of the restoration may be covered by dental and medical insurance policies. Your dentist can help you with this process.
Copyright © 2006 Academy of General Dentistry. All rights reserved

Answer 2

Implants have better long-term outcome compared with root-canal+ bridges. The initial cost is high. However, long-term maintainence cost would be much much lower than bridges, because every 7 to 10 years you may need to replace them with new set of bridge ( that will be about $3000 - $4000 on average or more). you would have, let's say, 4 -5 bridges in your life time. In contrast, each implant ( the screw part + crown part) replaces one tooth. If replacement needed, only the crown part is required; assuming that the screw is in good shape and not all the crowns need replacement at the same time. For financial issue, some dental clinics offer CARE Credit or CitiHealth Card which offer monthly payment plan at low interests over 2 -5-year period of time, especially for most people today with limited budget.

hope it helps. good luck

Answer 3

Aero Cat has no idea what would be better for you. Neither do I.

Ask your dentist for a written estimate or a pre-authorization from your insurance. It might save you some money to find a general dentist who will do the root canal instead of referring to a specialist. However, some root canals are tricky and best done by an endodontist.

No one on this site can tell you what will work best for your mouth. I understand your pain, but find a dentist who will inform you to your satisfaction rather than seeking opinions here - they are worth exactly what you pay for them.

Answer 4

I don't understand the pounds myself!!! I know I just had two root canals and for both cost me $2300.00 now I am waiting for the actual crowns which will cost me about the same so for two root canals plus two crowns my total comes to about $4600.00 US dollars. I hope this helps a little!!

Answer 5

Yes it is expensive to have any dental work done.What you can do is go to dental schools have your work done there.They are newly graduated dentists.But their work has to be perfect,because the professors have to check and approve everything they do.They go by the book,there will be no mistakes.They may be slow and the whole thing may take more time.But hey it will be a lot cheaper than a private dentist.Good luck.

Answer 6

Implants tend to be costlier.