Data Sources & Methodology
Last updated: March 1, 2026
SmileCost publishes educational cost estimates — not guaranteed quotes. Our pricing models combine publicly available dental fee surveys, regional cost-of-living adjustments, and procedure-specific benchmarks used by US dental practices.
Primary Sources
- ADA Health Policy Institute — national dental fee survey data and oral health economics research
- FAIR Health — regional medical and dental charge benchmarks by geographic area
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) — regional cost indices and healthcare wage data
- Published 2024–2026 dental implant cost studies and industry reports
How We Calculate State Estimates
- Establish US national baseline ranges for each procedure (single implant, All-on-4, crown, bone graft)
- Apply state-level cost-of-living modifiers (0.82× to 1.28× based on BLS regional data)
- Round to nearest $10 for calculator display
- Review and update quarterly or when major market shifts occur
What Our Estimates Include
Single implant estimates include the implant fixture, abutment, and crown unless noted otherwise. All-on-4 estimates include four implants and a fixed prosthesis. Bone graft, extraction, sedation, and sinus lift are calculated separately when selected in the calculator.
Limitations
- Individual provider quotes may differ by 20–40% from our ranges
- Brand selection (Straumann vs. generic) significantly affects price — see our implant brands guide
- Insurance coverage varies by plan — estimates assume partial coverage only when selected
- We do not collect personal health information or provide individualized treatment plans
Corrections
Found an error? Contact us at smilecost@mysmilecost.com with the page URL and source citation. We review corrections within 5 business days.