What Should I Look For in My Implant Dentist?

You may know that you need a dental implant, but do you know where to go to get one? Maybe your family dentistry practice has recommended a specialist. Or perhaps you just know that an implant is the best option for you, and you’re looking for a dental implant dentist on your own. Whatever the case, you want to make sure you find someone who has experience, credentials and a few other qualities, so your procedure can be successful.

Who Can Perform a Dental Implant Procedure?

You may be wondering what kind of dentist can perform a dental implant procedure. Do you need a specialist? Can your family dentist do a dental implant for you?

Family/General Dentist: As long as your dentist has completed training courses on surgical implant placement and has achieved successful results with implants for patients, then he or she is qualified to perform this procedure. Proper training in dental implant procedures is essential, and completing a program to learn and practice the correct techniques is vital to the success of the implant. Sometimes a general dentist is well qualified to handle this procedure on his or her own, and sometimes he or she will team up with another specialist for the best outcome.

Oral Surgeons and Periodontists: These dentists are recognized by the ADA as surgical specialists. With post-graduate work and years of training and experience, they are qualified to perform dental implant surgery. They have a deep understanding of the importance of preventing complications following surgery, and what to do in case complications arise.

Prosthodontist: This is someone who specializes in the restoration and replacement of teeth. These specialists have been trained in this area and have a high level of expertise. Again, they can be part of a team with another specialist or general dentist, depending on the needs of the patient.

Questions to Ask Your Dentist or Dental Specialist:

When you have found a professional to perform your implant procedure, you may want to ask a few questions before committing. Here is a list compiled by The American Academy of Implant Dentistry to help you out:

  • • What are your credentials and certifications? What trainings have you completed? Are you an AAID Credentialed implant dentist?
  • • What is the success rate of the implants you have performed?
  • • How many dental implant procedures have you performed and how long have you been performing them?
  • • Can you explain all the steps of the procedure? Will the procedure be done in this dentist office or will I go somewhere else?
  • • How about in between procedures? Will I have a temporary tooth?
  • • Are there any risks involved?
  • • How will I take care of my dental implant?
  • • What is the pain like and the recovery time?

Though dental implants are a common procedure, it needs to be done right to be successful. Our experienced dentists and expert team at Watkin Dental Associates can be with you through this procedure to make it comfortable, safe and successful. Please contact us for more information. We look forward to working with you.