If you're missing one or more teeth, dental implants are the gold standard for tooth replacement. But the question on everyone's mind is: "How much do dental implants actually cost?"
Your Carmel Mountain Dentist, Dr. Irene S. Olaes, DMD believes in transparent pricing. Here's everything you need to know about dental implant costs in San Diego.
Disclaimer: The price ranges in this article are estimates based on 2025 San Diego-area averages and may not reflect current pricing at our office. Actual costs vary based on individual treatment needs, complexity, and materials used. Please schedule a consultation for a personalized treatment plan and accurate estimate.
Dental Implant Cost Breakdown
Single Tooth Implant: $3,000 - $5,500
This includes:
- Surgical placement of titanium implant post
- Abutment (connector piece)
- Custom porcelain crown
- All follow-up visits
Multiple Teeth (Implant Bridge): $6,000 - $15,000
Replacing 3-4 teeth may require only 2 implants supporting a bridge, making it more cost-effective than individual implants.
Full Arch Replacement (All-on-4): $20,000 - $30,000
This revolutionary technique replaces a full arch of teeth with just 4-6 strategically placed implants.
Why Do Prices Vary?
Several factors affect dental implant pricing:
1. Implant Quality and Brand
Premium brands like Nobel Biocare and Straumann have decades of research backing their success rates. Dr. Olaes uses only FDA-approved, research-backed implant systems.
2. Additional Procedures
Some patients need preparatory work:
- Bone grafting: $300-$1,200 (if jawbone density is insufficient)
- Sinus lift: $1,500-$3,000 (for upper back teeth)
- Tooth extraction: $150-$400 (removing damaged tooth first)
3. Experience Matters
With 25+ years of experience placing and restoring dental implants, Dr. Olaes handles most cases in-house, avoiding the added cost of specialist referrals.
Insurance and Financing Options
Does Insurance Cover Implants?
Coverage is improving. Some PPO dental plans now cover 50% of implant costs up to their annual maximum ($1,000-$2,000). We'll help you maximize your benefits.
Financing Options
Don't let cost prevent you from restoring your smile:
- In-house payment plans - 0% interest for 12 months
- CareCredit - Extended financing with approved credit
- FSA/HSA accounts - Use pre-tax dollars
- Dental savings plans - 15-30% discount on procedures
Implants vs. Other Options: Long-Term Value
| Option | Lifespan | Maintenance | Long-Term Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Implant | 25+ years | Minimal - regular brushing & checkups | Excellent - rarely needs replacement |
| Dental Bridge | 10-15 years | Moderate - special flossing required | Good - may need 1-2 replacements |
| Partial Denture | 5-8 years | High - daily removal & cleaning | Fair - multiple replacements needed |
The winner: Dental implants offer superior long-term value because they function like natural teeth and rarely need replacement.
What About "Cheap" Implants?
We occasionally see patients with failed implants from discount providers or dental tourism. The money saved isn't worth the risk when:
- Unknown implant brands may have higher failure rates
- Limited follow-up care if problems arise
- No warranty or legal recourse
- Potential for serious infections
Are You a Good Candidate?
Most adults with missing teeth qualify for implants. Good candidates have:
- Healthy gums
- Adequate jawbone density (or willingness to do bone grafting)
- Good oral hygiene habits
- No uncontrolled chronic conditions
The only way to know for sure is a consultation with digital X-rays and a comprehensive exam.
Schedule Your Implant Consultation
At Carmel Mountain Dentist, we offer implant consultations including a comprehensive exam and treatment plan.
Take the first step toward your new smile. Call (858) 487-4683 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Olaes. We serve patients throughout Carmel Mountain Ranch, Rancho Bernardo, Poway, 4S Ranch, and the greater San Diego area.