Cheap Trick: The Dangers of Discount Dental Implants

July 4, 2025

Rendering of dental implant.

Dental implants are one of the most effective and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. They restore both function and appearance, helping you chew comfortably, smile confidently, and maintain good oral health. Because implants require surgical placement and high-quality materials, they are often considered a financial investment. Unfortunately, some providers advertise “discount dental implants” at prices that seem too good to be true. While saving money may sound appealing, choosing cheap implants can come with significant risks to your health, comfort, and wallet in the long run.

Low-Quality Materials

A successful dental implant relies on strong, biocompatible materials—typically medical-grade titanium or zirconia—that fuse securely with your jawbone. Discount implants may be made with inferior materials that are more likely to corrode, break, or fail to integrate properly. This not only shortens the lifespan of the implant but also increases your risk of infection and costly corrective procedures.

Improper Placement

The success of an implant doesn’t just depend on the materials—it also requires precise planning and placement by a skilled dentist or oral surgeon. Cheap implant providers may cut corners by skipping essential diagnostic steps like 3D imaging or bone assessments. Without this careful preparation, the implant may be placed incorrectly, leading to nerve damage, sinus issues, bite problems, or complete implant failure.

Increased Risk of Infection

Discount implant clinics may lack proper sterilization standards or use outdated equipment. Poor infection control practices significantly raise your risk of developing peri-implantitis, a gum disease-like condition that causes inflammation and bone loss around the implant. Left untreated, this can lead to implant removal and permanent damage to your jawbone.

Hidden Costs

The “low” advertised price for discount implants often doesn’t include the full treatment. Essential steps like bone grafting, abutments, crowns, or follow-up visits may be excluded, leaving you with unexpected bills. In many cases, patients who choose discount implants end up spending more money correcting problems than they would have by investing in quality care from the start.

Shortened Implant Lifespan

A well-placed, high-quality dental implant can last decades—or even a lifetime—with proper care. Discount implants, however, often fail within just a few years due to poor planning or inferior materials. Replacing failed implants is not only expensive but can also require additional surgery to repair bone loss, making future treatment more complex.

Compromised Overall Health

A failed or infected dental implant doesn’t just affect your mouth—it can also impact your overall health. Severe infections can spread to other areas of the body, potentially causing systemic health problems. Investing in high-quality implants with a reputable dentist ensures your safety and reduces these serious risks.

While the idea of saving money on dental implants may be tempting, the dangers of discount options far outweigh the benefits. Your oral health, comfort, and long-term well-being depend on choosing a qualified dentist who uses high-quality materials and follows proper protocols. Think of dental implants as a long-term investment in yourself, one that’s worth doing right the first time.

About the Practice

Here at Baltimore Dental Arts, we offer a solution to rival all traditional restoration options with dental implants. Our in-house specialists use the latest technology for beautiful results, giving you a new smile that can last decades or even a lifetime! We can replace any number of missing teeth and ensure that you leave our office smiling and satisfied. Schedule an appointment with us online or call us at (410) 372-0202.