How Much Does Dental Bone Grafting Cost?
Before dentists can place dental implants, they need to ensure that the bone in the jaw is robust and sturdy enough to support a dental implant and its restoration. Currently, estimates suggest that more than half of dental implant patients require some type of bone graft to prepare for a successful implant restoration. One of the main reasons that dental implants are considered the optimal solution to missing teeth is that they’re designed to be permanent and to look, feel, and act just like healthy, natural teeth. They achieve this lifelike nature and longevity because the dental implant post itself, once it’s placed within the jawbone, fuses together with the bone and creates a permanent, stable bond. Without adequate healthy bone, however, this integration of implant and bone is compromised, and any implant that doesn’t integrate properly with the bone is likely to fail. It’s sometimes possible to strategically place smaller dental implants in areas where there is less bone available, though this depends on the complexity of the implant plan and design and isn’t the norm. Dental bone grafts are also used to build up bone that has been lost to resorption or injury, restoring the structure and appearance of the jaw. Because bone grafts play such a major role in the oral health of so many people, they are a valuable, necessary element of many restorative dentistry treatments. But some of these restorations can become costly, which raises the question: how much should I expect to pay for dental bone grafts?
The cost of dental bone grafts varies widely, depending on multiple factors, with an average price range between $550 and $5,150. One factor that contributes to the cost of dental bone grafts is the material used. There are four different types of grafting material that are used most widely in the medical and dental fields. Grafts that use human donor bone, called allografts, range in cost from $650 to $1,600. Grafts that use animal donor bone, called xenografts, range in price from $550 to $1,400. Grafts that use bone from the patient’s own body, called autografts, range in cost from $2,200 to $5,200. Finally, grafts that use synthetic bone materials, called alloplasts, range from $575 to $1,400. The extent of bone restoration needed also affects cost, and more complex procedures are more expensive than simpler procedures. Other factors that affect cost are the expertise of the dentist and the location of the dental practice. These costs include only the bone graft itself; when grafts are placed to prepare the jaw for dental implants, the cost of the dental implant procedure and restoration materials are factored separately from the cost of the graft. Dental insurance may cover a portion of the bone graft if it is done for medical reasons, as opposed to cosmetic reasons. This means that bone grafts that are performed solely to improve the appearance of the jaw and face are unlikely to be covered, and grafts that are performed to strengthen the jaw and help preserve the natural teeth and oral health might be. In all cases, it’s helpful to check with the insurance provider before embarking on any dental procedure so that you can proceed with a clear understanding of what you’ll be paying for.
For patients who need to replace missing bone in their jaw, whether as preparation for a dental restoration or for another reason, bone grafts are a trustworthy, effective option. Dental bone grafts aren’t recommended for everyone, but your dentist can review whether they’re a good option for you, and you can learn more about the different bone graft procedures and their corresponding costs when you see your dentist for a consultation. Know that there are also options in different price ranges, too, and call your dentist to learn which options might work for you.