Dental implants are the leading missing tooth solution; there’s no surprise they come at a high price tag.
Their superior strength can explain their cost over other traditional tooth replacement methods.
Not to mention the fact they are the closest thing to natural functioning teeth – oh, and that they last up to 20 years.
However, if you have missing teeth and cannot afford dental implants, there are specific ways you can attempt to get them for free or at a cheaper rate. Let’s explore.
Some volunteer dental labs and research institutes develop studies on the implant success rate across various age groups.
Rarely will they offer clinical trials involving teeth implants and other dental procedures to test new materials and technology and even to compare certain products across various demographics.
However, some scams exist, so be weary in your search for these programmes, which can initially be tricky to pin down.
These labs often cater to those who need dental work and target specific social groups.
Patients in these cases receive their treatment free of charge.
But again, there are risks involved – there may not be a guarantee, for example, on how long your implants will last, and you may have access to zero support if anything goes wrong further down the line.
To find or register your interest in future research projects, check out the National Institute for Health Research to see if they are recruiting.
People In Research can also be another credible source for trial programmes.
As you might be aware, it takes years of training to become a fully qualified dentist, especially as implant dentistry is a specialist form.
As dental students will need hands-on practice, various UK dental schools offer dental work for free if you are happy for a student to carry out the work.
In return for free implants, you should expect to give up a considerable amount of time; you might have to spend multiple hours at a dental school for each appointment and attend numerous times.
Browse some of the dental schools in the UK offering free restorative dentistry treatments:
You can also search for general hospitals in the UK that might have similar opportunities here.
As a UK patient, your first thought might be to turn to the NHS for help; that’s what they’re there for, right?
Even though the NHS provides subsidised dentistry for those displaying a medical need for it, implants are rarely included.
Most missing teeth patients can get dentures or even bridges via the NHS if sufficient to sustain their oral health.
However, there are some exceptions where you can get implants for free on the NHS or pay a reduced fee. Learn more.
This will apply to patients who:
If the above applies, you should speak to an NHS dentist regarding your eligibility for NHS implants.
Many people can be encouraged to travel abroad. However, here at Mint Dental, we would not recommend it!
You would not believe the work we have seen carried out overseas, where patients have come to our practice with metal grates hanging out of their mouths.
Many UK dentists may decline to jump in and resurrect work carried out abroad, as they use different systems and techniques, making the situation worse.
Whilst all of these might excite you to have free dental implants, it’s essential to bear in mind that the reality, your chances of getting free implants in the UK can be scarce.
The best thing we can advise is to find a dentist you trust and know who will do an incredible job, as many can go wrong with teeth implantation.
Choosing a reputable prosthodontist with experience means you make an excellent investment for your smile and can save you money in the future.
Mint Dental offers 0% finance over 12 months – and even offers plans extending to 60 months with 9.9% APR.
We’ve teamed up with Chrysalis Finance to provide you with simple & affordable ways to pay for all types of dental treatment; finance from £950.00 to £25,000.00. You don’t need to be a homeowner. When approved, Chrysalis would pay our clinic directly. Chrysalis Finance Limited is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN 631193. This does not affect your credit score.
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