How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Tooth

As a general rule, the dental implant is a tool when all else has failed and is the last option.  If a tooth can be saved, it should be.

Having said that, the cost for an implant "depends".  There are fees for the implant, the crown on the implant, and the abutment (connecting the crown TO the implant).  Sometimes, a tooth must be extracted, so the fee to remove the tooth should be considered, as well as possible grafting procedures.

While the cost CAN mount, between $4000 to $6000 for a single tooth, dental implants are among the longest lasting procedures in dentistry and well worth the investment.

Prior to implant placement for a tooth with receeding gums, an assessment is made to determine whether a tooth can be saved with routine periodontal treatment. Gingival grafting has become very predictable. When successful will usually stabilize recession and cover exposed roots.

When it is determined that a tooth should be extracted and replaced with an implant, the cost is dependant on whether adequate bone is available. Typical cost for implant surgery and the supporting crown without bone grafting can range from $3000 to $4000. If bone grafting is necessary, the cost of grafting alone can add several hundred dollars (simple grafts) to several thousand dollars for major grafting to the cost of implant surgery. CT imaging will determine whether bone grafting is necesary. Bone rafting is only one method used when adequate bone volume is not present. Advanced techniques can use modified implant forms to secure the implants in severely atrophied (reduced bone volume) cases which can save thousands of dollars and months of healing time.

Receding gums during pregnancy, also known as pregnancy gingivitis is quite common.  Unfortunately, the gums never grow back on their own.  This issue to usually solved by grafting a piece of tissue from another area of the mouth over the receded area. 

It is important to save your own teeth if at all possible.  Grafting by a periodontist, gum specialist, is the best first solution.  Sometimes bone supporting the tooth is lost as the gum recedes and can result in loss of the tooth.  Bone is much more difficult to replace. 

If your tooth must be removed, a bridge across the gap supported by crowns on both sides or an implant with bone grafting are possible solutions.  Coordination between your general dentist and appropriate specialists is in order.