Which Type of Dentist Places Dental Implants?

Dental implant surgery is typically performed by a specialist like an oral & maxillofacial surgeon or a periodontist. Implants are one of the most effective ways to replace a missing tooth.

When you lose a tooth, it’s natural to experience some bone tissue loss since your jaw bone is no longer being stimulated by the root of the missing teeth. There are several prosthetics that can be used to a replace a missing tooth, but none of them mimic the behavior or your teeth’s natural roots.

Did you know this about dental implants?

A general dentist is qualified to install implants, but most defer this part of the installation to a specialist who has performed the procedure numerous times and has extensive knowledge. Your dentist will coordinate the entire process. Your dentist will also take care of any restoration of the surgically-placed implant.

The specialist is typically someone that your dentist frequently works with. This oral professional will provide your dentist with materials and impressions that are needed to properly install the implant. Many dentists defer the surgical installation of an implant to a specialist since the odds of a successful surgery are higher. For most dentists, ensuring the well-being of their patients is their primary concern not proving that they also have the skills to surgically fit implants.

Another specialist that might be involved with you getting implants is a prosthodontist. This is an oral professional that specializes in the placement of dental prosthetics like bridges, crowns, and dentures. These specialists typically have more training than general dentists as far as implants are concerned.

Your dentist might also refer you to an oral surgeon for dental implant surgery. Oral surgeons spend four additional years studying surgical procedures performed in dentistry, including the installation of implants. An oral surgeon is also a specialist when it comes to sedating patients.

Periodontists also have the skills needed to perform dental implant surgery. Periodontists are well-versed in treating gum disease, and they have the perfect set of surgical skills needed for the installation of implants. A dentist might also refer you to an endodontist for the placement of your implant. Regardless of which specialist your dentist refers you to when you’re considering implants, he/she will be responsible for the restoration of the device.

Why get implants?

Implants give you a permanent way to replace your missing tooth. The implant mimics the behavior of your natural teeth, so you don’t have to worry about losing bone tissue because you have missing teeth. Implants look natural and they allow you to go back to eating your favorite foods and speaking clearly.

Taking care of your dental implants

With implants, there are no complicated cleaning procedures. Taking care of your implant is as simple as taking care of your natural chompers. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, use a quality mouthwash, and go to your dentist twice a year for a check-up and dental cleaning.

That’s pretty much all you have to do to keep your implants in good condition. Contact our dental office in San Antonio to find out if you’re a good candidate for implants.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Preferred Dental Center, request an appointment in our San Antonio dental office here: https://www.preferreddentalcenter.com. Or call us at (210) 822-8500.