Are you searching for “low-cost dental implants for seniors near me?” You are never too old to get a new smile, and if your teeth require some major TLC but you’re afraid they’ll cost a lot, then this list of low-cost dental implants will help you find the perfect service.
Some are funded by free government dental grants to help people in your specific situation. Read on to learn more.
What Are Dental Implants?
Unlike natural tooth roots, dental implants provide a permanent foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Their materials include titanium and other biocompatible materials. They are surgically placed into the jawbone and are a strong foundation for supporting one or more artificial teeth.
Think of dental implants as anchors that hold your new teeth in place, just like a screw holds a picture frame on a wall. They provide a stable base for your denture or bridge, so you can chew and talk normally.
Can Seniors Get Dental Implants?
Age is not a limiting factor for dental implants as long as a person is in good overall health and has adequate jawbone structure to support the implants. In fact, dental implants can be a great option for seniors who have lost teeth due to injury, disease, or aging.
However, you need a thorough evaluation by a dental professional to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. You may need to undergo additional procedures, such as bone grafting, to prepare your jaw for the implants.
Some medical conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes, can affect the healing process after surgery, so it's important to disclose your complete medical history to your dentist to prevent complications.
Low-Cost Dental Implants For Seniors Near Me
Dental implants can be pricey. The average cost of dental implants ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 and only includes post, abutment, and crown placements. You still have to pay for additional procedures like tooth extraction, bone grafting, CT scan, and x-ray.
The following are options for getting low-cost dental implants for seniors.
Dental Schools
Many dental schools provide dental care services at a reduced cost as part of their training program for students.
However, it's important to keep in mind that these services are provided by dental students supervised by licensed dentists and dental professionals. The quality of care may not be the same as that of private practice. Additionally, the process may take longer and require multiple appointments due to the educational nature of the program.
Community Health Clinics
These clinics are non-profit organizations that provide medical and dental care to underserved communities. They often offer low-cost or free health services to uninsured or underinsured people who may not have access to regular healthcare due to financial or other barriers.
Community health clinics may provide various services, including preventive care, diagnostics, treatment, and follow-up care. They may also offer specialty services, such as dental care, vision care, and mental health services.
The quality of care provided by community health clinics varies, but many are staffed by licensed and experienced healthcare professionals dedicated to providing quality care to their patients.
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)
Any senior over the age of 55 can take advantage of the services offered by PACE, a home and community-based program aimed at helping seniors afford nursing home care while continuing to live in their communities.
They can pay for dental implants not covered by Medicaid or Medicare.
VA Dental Coverage
If you’re a veteran and meet the eligibility requirements, you can get free dental care (including dental implants) from the Veterans Affairs office. However, the criteria are strict and dependent on various factors, such as your service during the war and any service-connected dental disability you’ve suffered.
Private Charities
Many private organizations help low-income individuals, including seniors, access affordable health care and oral care. This includes giving away free or discounted dental implants.
Some examples include Healing California, a private organization in California dedicated to providing free dental, medical, and vision care to low-income individuals in California, including homeless veterans and seniors.
This dental center in Texas provides discounted dental implants for those affected by the pandemic. Check out your local community and see if private organizations provide free or discounted dental healthcare.
Getting a new smile doesn’t have to be expensive or out of reach. With the help of the answers to “low-cost dental implants for seniors near me” mentioned above, you can restore your teeth.
Looking to maximize your savings on dental implants? Learn about even more affordable solutions available to seniors by exploring the free & low-cost clinics in Las Vegas in our latest blog post.
You can also check out our blog about available dental care for adults without insurance, for more information.
