Choosing to have a tooth replaced is a big commitment, especially if you’re going for the premium tooth replacement option out there; implants.

There’s no doubt that implants are a cut above dentures and bridges, providing not just the most aesthetically toothlike solution possible, but the most functional too.

If the price tag in implants is putting you off, here are a few ways you can make them a more affordable option.

How To Save Money On Dental Implants

Take advantage of open days

Wait for open days and offers to get the best price on implant treatment, but make sure you scrutinise the deal properly.

Often, the “before” prices are inflated, and a lot of the discounts are available all year round anyway. Ask the clinician to be transparent with you about the “before” cost, and ask for evidence of the “before” price to make sure you’re really being offered a good deal.

Find a recently trained dentist

If your implant case is a simple one (not involving bone grafts or multiple tooth replacement), finding a newly trained implant dentist can reduce the cost of your treatment. Newly trained dentists tend to offer competitive prices whilst they build up their portfolios.

Remember to look at their credentials online (usually available on the Team page of dental practice websites), taking note of where they studied (some establishments are more prestigious than others).

Find a dentist using cheaper brands

Implant brands vary in quality, so it’s possible to find a dentist offering the implant B-list brands, as opposed to the pioneering more expensive brands.

If you do opt for dentists using cheaper implant brands, be prepared for the fact there may be a compromise on the aesthetic outcome of treatment. If you’re particularly worried about natural aesthetics, this might not be the option for you to keep costs down.

Check to see if you’re eligible through the NHS

Albeit rare, it is possible to get dental implants on the NHS, if you have lost teeth due to:

• Cancer

• Botched surgery

• A severe accident or trauma  

This said, the waiting list can be years long, so you may wish to either opt for bridges or dentures through the NHS or go private with your implant treatment (adopting the tips above to get the best price possible).  

Ask about upfront payment

With an increasing number of private dental practices cropping up, the competition for patients will only increase.

With this in mind, you may find you can negotiate a deal by offering to pay upfront (if you don’t ask you don’t get!) or by suggesting you will take your business elsewhere.

Tips for helping with spreading the cost of treatment

As well as reducing the overall cost of your implant treatment, there are ways to spread the cost too:

•⁠  ⁠Finance options for steady monthly payments (many practices offer 0%)

•⁠  ⁠0% interest credit cards for flexible repayment

•⁠  ⁠Splitting the cost of your treatment across multiple visits

Resources for saving money on dental implant treatment

•⁠  Use our Implant Cost Calculator to work out how much treatment could cost you (it’s free and takes just 1 minute to use).

•⁠  ⁠Speak to a dentist to find out how simple your case is and the expected price ranges in the UK (free of charge).

•⁠  Read our Comprehensive Implant Guide for more information on implants.