Dental Implant Costs in NZ (2025)
Average cost: $3,000-$6,000 per tooth. Compare prices and find the best payment option for your dental implants.
Single Tooth Implant
Complete implant with crown for one tooth
- Initial consultation
- 3D imaging/X-rays
- Implant placement
- Custom crown
- Follow-up care
Multiple Implants
Two or more implants with crowns
- Comprehensive planning
- Multiple implants
- Custom crowns
- Bridge work if needed
- Extended aftercare
All-on-4 Implants
Full arch replacement with 4-6 implants
- Complete treatment plan
- Implant placement
- Temporary teeth
- Final prosthesis
- Lifetime support
Additional Costs to Consider
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | $100 - $250 | Includes examination and treatment planning |
| CT Scan/X-rays | $150 - $500 | 3D imaging for precise placement |
| Bone Grafting | $500 - $3,000 | If required for insufficient bone density |
| Sinus Lift | $2,000 - $4,000 | For upper jaw implants if needed |
| Temporary Crown | $300 - $600 | During healing period |
Pricing by Region
Auckland
Higher costs due to advanced technology and living costs
Wellington
Competitive pricing with multiple providers
Christchurch
More affordable options available
Dental Finance
Specialized dental loans
- Interest rates from 9.95%
- Terms up to 60 months
- Quick approval process
- No early repayment fees
Payment Plans
Direct clinic arrangements
- Interest-free periods
- Weekly/monthly payments
- Low deposit options
- Flexible terms
Health Insurance
Coverage options
- Partial coverage possible
- Pre-approval required
- Provider network rates
- Benefit limits apply
Price Match Guarantee
Many clinics offer price matching against comparable implant procedures. Ask about price matching during your consultation.
- Compare multiple quotes
- Written quotes required
- Same implant system/brand
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do dental implants cost in New Zealand?
Dental implants in New Zealand cost between $3,000 and $6,000 per tooth as of 2025, with an average of around $4,200. A single tooth implant including the implant post, abutment, and crown typically ranges from $3,000-$6,000. Multiple implants cost $2,500-$5,000 per implant when done together. All-on-4 full arch replacement costs $20,000-$35,000 per arch. Prices vary based on location (Auckland is more expensive than Christchurch), the implant brand used, bone grafting requirements, and the dentist's experience.
Why are dental implants so expensive?
The cost reflects the complexity and materials involved: the titanium implant post itself costs $500-$1,000 wholesale, plus the abutment and custom crown. The procedure requires specialized surgical training (dentists spend 2-4 years learning implant dentistry), 3D imaging equipment ($50,000+), sterile surgical facilities, and multiple appointments over 3-6 months. Each implant is custom-made for your mouth. You're also paying for expertise – implant success depends heavily on proper placement, which takes years to master. The investment includes diagnostic planning, surgery, healing period monitoring, and final restoration.
Does health insurance cover dental implants in NZ?
Some health insurance policies provide partial coverage for dental implants, but coverage is limited. Southern Cross and NIB policies may cover 40-60% of the cost up to annual limits ($500-$2,000 typically). Implants for accident-related tooth loss may have better coverage or ACC assistance. Cosmetic implants are rarely covered. Most policies require pre-approval and have waiting periods (6-12 months). Even with insurance, expect to pay $1,500-$4,000 out of pocket per implant. Check your specific policy details, and consider that payment plans might be more affordable than upgrading insurance coverage.
Are payment plans available for dental implants?
Yes, most NZ dental clinics offer flexible payment plans for implants. Common options include: interest-free payment plans for 12-18 months (often requiring 20% deposit), dental finance through providers like Q Card, Gem Visa, or Zip Money with terms up to 60 months (interest from 9.95%), weekly payment plans starting from $75-$150 per week, and practice payment plans arranged directly with your dentist. For All-on-4 procedures ($40,000+), clinics often offer extended financing up to 5 years. Payment plans make implants accessible without needing to save the full amount, and you can begin treatment sooner.
How much does a full mouth of dental implants cost?
A full mouth of dental implants in NZ typically costs $40,000-$70,000 for both upper and lower arches. The most common solution is All-on-4 implants: $20,000-$35,000 per arch, so $40,000-$70,000 total for full mouth. Individual implants for every tooth (20-28 implants) would cost $60,000-$168,000, which is rarely done. Implant-supported dentures (4-6 implants per arch with snap-on dentures) cost $15,000-$25,000 per arch, or $30,000-$50,000 total. Most people choose All-on-4 as it offers the best balance of functionality, appearance, and cost. Treatment takes 6-12 months from start to final teeth.
What's the difference between cheap and expensive dental implants?
Key differences include: Implant brand – premium European brands (Straumann, Nobel Biocare) cost $4,500-$6,000 per tooth with 95-98% long-term success rates. Budget Asian brands cost $3,000-$4,000 with 90-93% success rates. Dentist experience matters significantly – specialists with 10+ years may charge $5,000+ but have better outcomes. Included services vary – cheaper quotes might not include CT scans ($150-$500), bone grafting ($500-$3,000), or follow-up care. Technology used – modern guided surgery adds cost but improves precision. While cheaper isn't always worse, prices below $2,500 per tooth should be questioned. Remember, implant removal and replacement costs much more than choosing quality initially.
Do dental implant costs vary by city in New Zealand?
Yes, prices vary significantly by city. Auckland costs $3,500-$6,500 per implant due to higher rent, wages, and demand. Wellington costs $3,200-$6,000 per implant with competitive pricing among multiple providers. Christchurch offers the best value at $3,000-$5,500 per implant, with modern facilities rebuilt after the earthquakes. Hamilton and regional centers cost $3,200-$5,500 per implant. The quality of care is generally consistent – Christchurch dentists use the same implant brands and techniques as Auckland. Consider travel costs, but you could save $1,000-$2,000 per implant by choosing a different city. Many patients combine treatment with a short holiday.
What additional costs should I budget for with dental implants?
Beyond the implant cost, budget for: Initial consultation and CT scan ($150-$500, often credited toward treatment), bone grafting if needed (30-40% of patients) at $500-$3,000, sinus lift for upper jaw implants ($2,000-$4,000), temporary crown during healing ($300-$600), and potentially extractions if replacing failing teeth ($150-$400 per tooth). Some patients need periodontal treatment before implants ($500-$2,000). Factor in time off work (1-2 days for surgery, plus follow-up appointments), pain medication and antibiotics ($50-$100), and softer foods during healing. Total additional costs: $1,000-$5,000 depending on your situation. Get a comprehensive treatment plan upfront to avoid surprises.
How long do dental implants last, and is it worth the cost?
Dental implants typically last 25+ years, with many lasting a lifetime. The implant post itself has a 95% success rate at 10 years and 90% at 20 years. The crown on top usually needs replacement after 10-15 years ($1,000-$2,000) due to wear. Compared to alternatives: bridges last 7-15 years and cost $3,000-$6,000 but damage adjacent teeth; dentures last 5-8 years, cost $1,500-$4,000, and reduce bone density. Over 25 years, you'd need 2-3 bridges ($9,000-$18,000) or 3-5 dentures ($6,000-$20,000). A $4,000 implant plus one crown replacement ($1,500) totals $5,500 – making implants the most cost-effective long-term solution. Beyond cost, implants preserve bone, function like natural teeth, and don't affect adjacent teeth.
Can I get cheaper dental implants overseas?
Dental implants in countries like Thailand, India, or Mexico cost 40-60% less than NZ ($1,500-$3,000 vs $4,000-$6,000). However, consider: Travel costs ($2,000-$4,000 for flights and accommodation), multiple trips required (initial consultation, surgery, final placement), warranty and follow-up care complications (if issues arise, returning overseas is expensive), quality control variability (regulations differ), and no recourse if problems occur. If complications develop, NZ dentists may charge premium rates to fix overseas work. Dental tourism can save money for extensive work (full mouth) where savings offset travel. For 1-2 implants, the savings disappear after travel costs. Many NZ dentists offer payment plans making local treatment affordable without overseas risks.