With advances in orthodontics, dental implants have become the go-to solution to replace missing, cracked, or broken teeth. These implants are prosthetic roots designed to be foundations for prosthetic teeth. With a whopping 98% success rate, these permanent fixtures are often considered better than dentures. Knowing about the different types of dental implants and their prices in the country is important for making an informed decision regarding opting for dental implants.

Types of implants and their cost
1. Single-tooth implants
This type of implant is meant to replace just one tooth, which may be missing, cracked, or broken. The overall cost of getting single-tooth implants may range from AED 5,000 to AED 16,000, which includes the price of all associated procedures.

2. All-on-4 dental implants
Here, four implants are used for fixing prosthetic teeth that support an entire set of damaged or missing upper or lower teeth. This means that the whole set of teeth is balanced using just four implants. This procedure is a good option for those with severe bone loss, as it helps reduce the need for bone grafts (a procedure for adding volume and density to the jawbone). The all-on-four dental implant procedure may cost anywhere between AED 15,000 and AED 18,000.

3. All-on-6 dental implants
As the name suggests, here, six implants anchor an entire set of damaged or missing lower or upper teeth.

Other costs
1. Consultation fees
Initial consultations with dentists are crucial for determining the severity of dental issues and whether implants would be the best solution. During the consultation, dentists examine whether the gums are strong enough to withstand the intensive procedure. So, when calculating dental implant costs, one should also consider the consultation fee, which is typically around AED 200.

2. Diagnostic test charges
The dentist may want to examine the jawbone more closely before proceeding with the implant procedure. For this, they may order X-rays or 3D scans of the oral cavity, which cost approximately AED 300. If a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is ordered, one should be prepared to pay around AED 450 for the test.

3. Bone grafting cost
At times, loss of teeth can lead to severe bone loss. When this happens, dentists may have to perform a bone grafting procedure to restore bone density. This can also help heal any complex bone fractures. Bone grafting prices range from AED 1,000 to AED 2,500, depending on the severity of the condition.

4. Abutment and crown charges
These parts are visible components fixed over the dental implants and may incur additional charges. Usually, fixing an abutment or crown costs between AED 1,500 and AED 2,500.

Tips for saving money on implants
1. Review in-house payment plans
The best dental implant clinics in Dubai can offer specific payment plans or packages in which they calculate an aggregate, discounted price considering all the procedures (including consultation and diagnosis). The clinic calculates this amount after the dentist has examined the oral cavity and determined the specific procedure. So, the total package typically comprises costs for consultation, diagnostic procedures, implant surgery, post-surgical care, abutment and crown placement, and bone grafting (if required). That’s why it is best to check whether the clinic offers such packages and plans before opting for a dental implant procedure.

2. Check financing options
Certain financial institutions offer loans catering to dental procedures, including dental implants. Also, if one has an insurance policy or plans to get one, they should check if it covers dental implants. If it does, one should check the extent of insurance coverage to calculate out-of-pocket expenses. This will help determine if they should consider getting a new policy that adequately covers dental implants. Alternatively, one can rely on their savings or go for a bank loan with nominal interest rates to cover the cost of the dental procedure.

3. Compare advance payment requirements
Clinics may ask for an advance or down payment before the dental procedure begins. To avoid a huge advance payment, it is best to get free dental implant quotes and compare them. Then, one should choose a clinic that quotes a reasonable down payment without compromising on the quality of service.

4. Boost credit score
If one opts for a loan, their credit score can play a vital role in securing the loan. If one has a low credit score, they should try to boost the score or look for banks with lenient credit score requirements. Also, roping in a co-borrower or co-signer can help increase the chances of getting approved for a loan.

5. Choose the right type of implants
The total amount to be paid varies depending on the type of dental implant procedure one will undergo. For example, single-tooth implants cost less than all-on-4 and all-on-6 procedures. Also, same-day dental implants can have a higher upfront cost than regular procedures. So, when looking for low-cost dental implants in Dubai, one should discuss available options with the dentist and choose a suitable yet affordable package.