These dental implants have introduced a revolution in the sisters of missing teeth. They are a long-lasting all-natural look which re-establishes both functionality and aesthetics. But as you consider taking dental implants, you are probably asking yourself: what kind of dentist should I take dental implant procedures? This would depend on several factors which include the complexity of your case, your oral health, the level of expertise of the different dental professionals. We will examine the different types of dentists who have specialized in dental implants and the reason why each one of them is different as it is.
Understanding Dental Implants
It is beneficial to know what dental implant is prior to getting into the kinds of dentists who carry out implants.
A dental implant refers to a post, in most cases, titanium, which is a small screw-like structure that serves as an artificial root of a tooth. It is implanted in the jawbone and it is embedded in the bone by a process known as the osseointegration. A crown (exposed part of the tooth) is put on the implant once it is healed forming a firm, naturally appearing replacement tooth.
Since dental implants require both restorative and surgical procedures, it needs the knowledge on oral surgery, gum health as well as prosthetic design. That is why the involvement of various dental professionals can be considered in the procedure.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
No other professionals are more specialized in terms of dental implant placement than the oral surgeons. They go through a lot of training that usually takes several years after dental school specializing in complicated surgery of the mouth, the jaw and the face.
Why choose an oral surgeon for implants:
They have improved skill in surgical work on complex cases, including the patients with bone loss or abnormal jaw construction.
They also are able to carry out bone grafting, sinus lifts and jaw reconstructions which in some cases may be a preliminary stage prior to the placement of the implants.
They are trained to handle risks in surgery including nerve proximity sinus complications.
An oral surgeon is also likely to be the safest and most successful choice when it comes to the placement of your dental implant when a lot of preparation is involved, or when you have underlying oral health concerns.
Periodontists (Gum Specialists)
Periodontists are those dentists who practice the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and other types of disorders that affect the supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontists also have a high level of expertise in implant placement as dental implants, being part of the periodontitis and having gum tissue encircling them, would make the periodontists highly knowledgeable in implant placement, as well..
Why choose a periodontist for implants:
They are well versed with the gums and jawbone which is very crucial in implant success.
They are able to treat periodontal patients and make sure that the surrounding tissue is healthy around the implant.
They tend to employ modern technology such as digital imaging and guided surgery to be able to position implants in the right location.
The best option would be to see a periodontist when you have some special gums or have previously had gum disease or bone loss and are planning to get implants.
Prosthodontists
Prosthodontists are specialists in dentistry who treat and reshape teeth. They are being trained on the design and installation of dental prosthesis which includes crowns, braces, dentures and implants. Although the surgical aspect of installing the implants may not necessarily be done by the prosthodontist, they are instrumental in creating the restoration, which is the part that is visible on your new tooth.
Why choose a prosthodontist for implants:
They are also very good at producing natural looking functional restorations that perfectly suit your smile.
They frequently organize the whole implant procedure and collaborate with the oral surgeons or periodontists.
They deal with complicated cases that include several missing teeth, complete mouth reconstructions or cosmetic issues.
A prosthodontist might be the specialist to manage your treatment in case you want the best cosmetic result and have your implant crowns accurately aligned.
General Dentists with Implant Training
Most of the general dentists in the present day have undergone extra training in the field of implant dentistry. With advancing technology and further learning, qualified general dentists are able to safely and competently undertake implant placement especially in simple cases.
Why choose a general dentist for implants:
They are able to offer full care treatment, including initial consultation to ultimate restoration within the same office.
They can apply to digital scanning and computer-assisted implant placement enhancing accuracy and comfort.
They are suitable for patients who require one and simple implants that may not have serious surgical complications.
But in case your case is complicated like having more than one tooth that is missing, your jawbone is worn up or your medical conditions and conditions complicate the healing process, your general dentist may refer you to a specialist to perform the surgical part.
Choosing the Right Dentist for Your Implants
- It is imperative to choose the appropriate dental practitioner to treat you in the process of implants. The following are some of the factors to be considered:
- Education and Training – Inquire of your dentist the number of implant cases done and the nature of special training done.
- Technology Implemented- Newer implant techniques are typically being guided by 3D imaging and are placed using computers which have been found to be more accurate.
- Full Service – There are dental practices where the dentistry has a group consisting of both restorative and surgical experts, which makes the process smooth.
- Patient Reviews and Case Study- Find pre-after photos or testimonials to know the level of skill of the dentist and satisfaction of customer.
- Comfort and Communication- Select a dentist who articulates the procedure, healing process and the price.
When Multiple Specialists Work Together
In most instances, team work is the most effective way of guaranteeing success. In a case, an oral health surgeon might put in the implant but a prosthodontist or general dentist creates and connects the crown. Interaction of experts guarantees accuracy, safety and naturalistic aesthetic results.
This is a multidisciplinary procedure, which fuses the surgical ability of an oral surgeon or periodontist with the artistic ability of a prosthodontist, to provide a healthier and more aesthetic smile.
Final Thoughts
In the case of dental implants, there is no single kind of dentist who can do everything, instead, there are a number of specialists, and each of them brings his or her own experience to the table. The surgical positioning is usually done by oral surgeons and periodontists and the restoration and overall appearance done by prosthodontists and trained general dentists.
What would suit you most is the decision that would not only be in your best interest, but also about the seriousness of the matter, and also the skill level in your area. The communication with your dentist and possibly the appointment of a specialist, can assist in making the process of dental implantation safe, comfortable, and will lead to a lasting confident smile.
Read More : How Executive Mentoring Accelerates Career Transitions for New Leaders
