Your dentist recommended dental bone grafting.
Besides being worried about the procedure, you might also be curious about dental bone graft cost. You’re not alone.
Figuring out the financial aspect of this procedure is essential for you to make an informed decision.
The average cost of dental bone grafting in the U.S. can begin from $400 and can go up to as much as $3000 per graft. There are also regional variations or additional expenses depending on each patient’s condition.
Let’s get into details and explain dental bone grafting, its complete cost with regional variations and additional costs, factors affecting cost, and the value it brings to your smile.
What is Dental Bone Grafting?
Dental bone grafting is a procedure that transplants bone tissue to the jaw bone. It adds density and volume to the areas of your mouth or teeth where bone tissue has been lost.
A dental bone graft serves as a foundation or base for other dental implants and procedures. Moreover, it may stimulate the growth of new bone tissue.
The procedure starts with an X-ray to find the extent of bone loss. Then the oral surgeon makes a small incision in the gum line and inserts the material.
The material can be synthetic, taken from your bone, or a cadaver. Then the periodontist stitches the incision site and lets it fuse with the bone.
Common reasons for needing a dental bone graft:
With 2.2 million procedures being performed each year, dental bone grafting is getting quite common. The most common reason for a dental bone graft is bone loss which has some further reasons to occur.
It might be a result of trauma, infection, aging, or any periodontal disease.
When jawbone density decreases, it loses the power to hold up a tooth or even teeth. So you need to get a bone graft to hold your teeth together.
Another reason for dental bone grafting is dental implants. A study indicates that 50% of dental implant procedures need a bone graft first. It provides excellent support for the implants to remain in place.
Average Price Range for Dental Bone Graft
The cost of dental bone grafting can vary significantly depending on several factors.
On average, patients can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3,000 per graft. However, it’s essential to recognize that this is just a ballpark figure, and actual costs may differ based on various factors.
Regional cost variations in different parts of the country
Various regions’ costs differ according to their area. Getting dental services from a metropolitan area will cost more compared to the countryside.
For example, if you’re planning to get it from a clinic in a big city like New York or Vegas, you can expect to pay more.
The starting price range will be around 600 dollars or more. On the other hand, you will find more affordable options in the Midwest or South. Moreover, small towns or rural areas also offer this service at a lower price.
Additional costs to consider
Apart from location, some additional costs make a huge difference in overall cost.
For example, the consultation fees. It will cost you around 100-200 dollars.
Anaesthesia service adds another 500 dollars. Oh, and never forget about those follow-up appointments.
Factors Affecting Dental Bone Graft Cost
As mentioned earlier, the cost of a dental bone graft depends on various factors that need to be considered before going for this procedure.
Type of bone graft material used
Different types of bone graft material will make a huge difference in the overall cost. Let’s dig into it.
- Autograft: It involves using material from your own body’s bones. The most common areas are the hip and jaw. It is an extensive procedure and costs more than other bone graft materials. The average cost of autograft is around 2000$ to 3000$.
- Allograft: The material in this type of bone graft source is taken from another human’s bone or a cadaver. It costs less than autograft ranging between 400 to 1200 dollars.
- Xenograft: This material is almost the same as the allograft. So the cost is also the same(400$ to 1200$). The only difference is that the material is usually taken by an animal’s bone such as a cow or pig. This also costs around 400$ to 1200$.
- Alloplast: Synthetic material can be used as a source rather than a human or animal donor. Such types of material include calcium phosphate, bioglass, or hydroxyapatite. It also costs around 400$ to 1200$.
The extent of bone loss and complexity of the procedure
The cost of dental bone graft largely depends on the extent of bone loss. The more bone loss, the more costly it is. This is because more material is required to cover a larger area of bone loss.
Moreover, the cost also depends on how complex the procedure is.
When the source of bone graft is autograft (using your own body’s bone), the procedure is more complex and extensive. It includes two surgeries.
One, taking a graft from the body. The other one includes placing it in the required area. So this procedure will cost more as compared to just one procedure involving synthetic material, or material from another body.
Location and reputation of the dental clinic or surgeon
It’s not only about dental procedures. But when you get any medical procedure from a professional and reputed surgeon, they will cost you more than your local surgeon.
Moreover, if you’re going to a dental clinic located in an expensive neighborhood, expect to pay more because there are more rents in these areas.
Wherever the cost of living is lower, the cost of dental procedures tends to also be lower.
Value and Long-Term Benefits of Dental Bone Grafting
Whenever someone’s spending money, they need to know if it is worth the money or not. So yes, dental bone grafting has some long-lasting effects that make it a great investment.
It prevents further bone loss in case of minor bone tissue loss. It serves as a scaffold that stimulates new bone tissue growth and results in the strengthening of the jawbone.
Impact on the success and longevity of dental implants: It provides a strong base for dental implants, which reduces the risk of implant failure. It contributes to the long-term success of dental implants. Moreover, a dental bone graft can last from 20 to 30 years when properly cared for.
Improvement in oral health and overall quality of life: If bone loss has occurred, it enhances facial appearance by giving a proper shape to the jaw. It improves oral health by maintaining the alignment and spacing of teeth. It also enhances the ability to chew and makes overall health better.
Financing Options for Dental Bone Graft
If you’ve got your dental insurance, your bone grafting will get covered. If you have a risk of bone loss, or any disease, trauma, or infection leading to bone loss, dental insurance will get you covered.
However, if you’re getting it for cosmetic reasons, the dental insurance won’t cover it for you.
Also, keep in mind that some dental insurances only cover a part of your treatment procedure, while others cover the whole procedure.
So always check with your provider about what they offer. You need to pay only 250 dollars if your dental insurance covers bone grafting.
Payment plans and financing options offered by dental clinics
Some dental clinics offer payment plans to facilitate their customers. It includes paying in small installments over time with low or zero interest rates.
You can also use a Healthcare credit card to cover your bone grafting procedure. For this, you need to check with your local dental clinic about what type of payment plan they offer.
Other potential sources of financial assistance or support
You can check your local dental schools for a budget-friendly dental bone grafting procedure.
They have interns or learning students who need to practice under the supervision of a professional dental surgeon.
Some community health centers or govt organizations might help you cover the cost of your procedure.
Making an Informed Decision
For making an informed decision you should keep some key considerations in mind.
Understanding the importance of dental bone grafting: Understand the importance of dental bone grafting. Who needs dental implants and why? How does it improve oral health yet overall health?
It is especially important for individuals going through dental implants to provide a stable base and long-term success.
Evaluating the cost versus the long-term benefits: You need to evaluate the cost versus the long-term benefits. Dental bone grafting is a great investment for preventing future complications.
It prevents bone loss and reduces the risk of implant failure which may require additional costs to cover.
Seeking professional advice and exploring all available options: Finally, it is best to seek help from professionals and explore all options that may be beneficial to you.
Final Words
Whether you are considering bone grafts for medical or aesthetic reasons, knowing the average cost and regional variations in cost is important.
Always seek professional advice for your case. He will guide you about the extent of bone loss and what type of bone graft will suit you best.
Do not forget to explore all available options like dental insurance, government, dental community centers, dental schools, and nonprofit organizations. Invest in your dental health today, and enjoy the long-term benefits.
