Depending on your location and specific needs, the cost of one dental implant can easily total several thousand dollars. That's because dental implants are a complex surgical procedure that involve careful planning and execution to reduce risk of infection and failure. If you're in need of a dental implant but don't know how you're going to pay for it, be aware that there are options available to you.

Check Your Dental Insurance Policy or Savings Plan

Start by checking your dental insurance policy to see what, if anything, will be covered. While some dental insurance plans will consider dental implants a "cosmetic procedure" and will not cover any portion of the costs, some will consider it a restorative procedure and will cover part or the majority of the expenses. If you don't have a dental insurance policy, you may want to consider purchasing a dental savings plan with your dentist of choice (if offered).

Stick With One Dentist for the Entire Procedure

Some dentist's offices that offer dental implants will refer you to a separate professional for the placement of the implant post itself, then have you return to their office to have your crown placed and the procedure completed. However, shuffling between dentists can cost you more money, so you may want to instead find a dentist's office that can complete all steps of the procedure for you.

Inquire With a Local Dental School

Some dental schools will offer significant discounts on certain procedures, and implants are sometimes one of these. Yes, you will be having the procedure done by a dental student, but it's also important to keep in mind that the student(s) will be under extremely close supervision by a licensed and experienced dental professional, so you should be in good hands.

Ask Your Dentist About Discounts and Payment Plans

If the idea of paying thousands of dollars up-front for a dental implant procedure is startling to you, ask your dentist if they offer an in-office payment plan that will allow you to make monthly payments or other installment payments at zero interest until your bill is paid off. Many offices are happy to offer installment plans for those with decent credit as a means of making expensive procedures more affordable.

Now that you have a better idea how to save on your dental implants, talk with professionals at a clinic like Oral Surgery Associates Inc to start the process.