Implants are a treatment method that restores the function and aesthetics of natural teeth by implanting an artificial tooth root in the area where a tooth has been lost. Many people are interested in them, but the most curious part before treatment is definitely the ‘임플란트 가격.’ However, if you search the Internet, you can see that the prices vary from hospital to hospital. Some hospitals say it is less than 1 million won, while others say it is more than 2 million won, so it is natural to be confused.
So why are implant prices so different? In this article, we will look at the reasons one by one.
Basic structure of implant prices
Implant treatment does not end with simply implanting an artificial tooth. It usually consists of three elements: ‘implant body (fixture) + abutment + prosthetic crown,’ and the price varies depending on the material, manufacturing method, and brand used.
The fixture is a screw-shaped structure that is implanted into the jawbone, and its main component is titanium. There are domestic and imported brands, and domestic implants are generally relatively inexpensive, but imported products are more reliable based on long-term clinical data. The abutment is the intermediate connecting part that connects the fixture and the prosthesis, and this also has a price difference depending on the material. Lastly, the prosthetic crown that acts as the tooth can be made of various materials such as metal, porcelain, and zirconia, and is selected considering aesthetics and durability.
Additional costs depending on the surgical method and patient condition
In addition to the basic implant structure, the treatment process varies depending on the individual’s oral condition, which affects the price. For example, if the tooth has been left untreated for a long time, the bone may be significantly absorbed and bone grafting may be necessary. If the space in the maxillary sinus (upper jaw bone) is low, maxillary sinus augmentation surgery must be performed concurrently, and such additional procedures increase the overall cost.
In addition, in the case of digital implants, which are being performed a lot recently, some hospitals incur additional costs because they are precision treatments utilizing digital equipment such as 3D CT diagnosis, virtual simulation, and surgical guide production. However, on the other hand, the overall satisfaction is high because it can reduce the incision and shorten the recovery period.
Why prices vary by hospital
The biggest reason implant prices vary by hospital is the treatment system, infrastructure, materials used, and the skill of the practitioner. Specialized implant centers or dental clinics with digital equipment have high initial equipment investment and maintenance costs, so the treatment fees are set at a certain level or higher. On the other hand, in the case of low-cost procedures, there may be differences in equipment or materials used, and it is difficult to accurately judge the quality of treatment by simply comparing prices.
Therefore, when considering implant costs, it is important to understand ‘why the price is set that much’ rather than simply ‘how much it is.’ Even for the same implant, the treatment results can vary greatly depending on which brand is used, how the surgery is performed, and whether bone grafting is included.
Health insurance coverage and self-payment
If you are 65 years of age or older and have some missing teeth, health insurance is applied, so you can receive treatment for 1-2 implants with your own expenses. However, this requires that you meet certain conditions, and there are restrictions on the number of applicable implants and whether they can be used each year, so you should check through a hospital consultation. If insurance is applied, the cost of general implants will be reduced to 30%, so it is recommended for elderly patients to check.
How much does the actual cost of implants cost?
Generally, the cost per implant is determined to be around 1 to 2 million won. If you simply implant domestically without bone grafting, it can cost around 1 million won, but if imported implants or additional procedures are included, it can exceed 2 million won. The cost is also relatively high for digital implants or front tooth implants where aesthetics are important.
The specific cost of implants varies depending on the patient’s oral condition, the scope of the necessary procedure, and the hospital’s equipment and technology, so it is best to receive an accurate consultation.
Cheap is not the only thing that matters!
Implants are not simple consumer goods, but rather ‘medical treatment’ that stays with your body for a long time. Therefore, rather than choosing just by looking at the price, it is important to compare and decide on what materials are used, how the surgery is performed, and what the hospital’s treatment system is.
If you want to know more about implant prices and components, please visit dentimplant.kr. We will help you plan the best treatment for you at a reasonable price.