Which Dentist Does Dental Implants? Your Definitive Guide to Choosing the Right Specialist
Thinking about getting dental implants? You’re not alone! This easy-to-follow guide will show you which dentist can place implants and why picking the right one matters for a bright, healthy smile that lasts years.
Table of Contents
Why Read This Guide?
Trying to find good info about dental implants and the right dentist for you? This guide gives you clear, simple answers. I’ll explain everything step by step, tell you who does what, and help you feel good about your choice—so you can have a nice, healthy smile for a long time.
What Are Dental Implants and Who Needs Them?
Dental implants are small posts made from titanium or zirconia. They go into your jawbone and act like real tooth roots. They hold a fake tooth, a bridge, or even dentures. You might need implants if:
- You lost one or more teeth
- Your dentures slide or don’t stay put
- You want to eat, talk, and smile without worry
Why do people want dental implants?
Dental implants feel and look just like your own teeth. They can last a long time if you look after them, help you eat the foods you like, and keep your jawbone strong.
Who Is Qualified to Place Dental Implants?
A lot of people think just one kind of dentist can do implants, but that’s not true! You have some choices. Here’s a look at who can put in dental implants:
| Type of Specialist | Training and Role | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons | 4-6 years in a hospital learning surgery after dental school | Tough cases, if bone needs fixing |
| Periodontists | 3 years learning about gums and bone after dental school | Gum problems, need help with gums or bone |
| Prosthodontists | 3 years learning to replace and fix teeth after dental school | Need new teeth to look super or need a big change |
| General Dentists with Implant Training | Dental school + short courses and practice | Easy, single implant cases |
Each type of dentist brings something special. The right choice depends on your mouth. That’s why it’s important to find a dentist trained for your needs.
Do All Dentists Place Implants?
Nope, not every dentist does dental implants. Some dentists only help with check-ups, cleanings, or fillings. Others get extra learning to put in implants safely. Here’s what you should know:
- General dentists may put crowns on top of implants but don’t always put implants in your bone.
- Some general dentists take special classes to learn how to do implant surgery.
- Specialists, like oral surgeons, periodontists, and prosthodontists, go to school longer and see more types of cases.
Always check your dentist’s training and how much implant work they’ve done before you start!
Oral Surgeons: When Are They Needed?
Some dental problems are pretty hard to deal with, like when you lose bone from gum disease or after an accident. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons help in these tough cases.
What makes oral surgeons different?
- They learn in hospitals for 4-6 years after dental school.
- They handle hard jobs—like fixing broken bones, bone grafts, or fixing damage from accidents.
- Oral surgeons use X-rays and 3D dental lab tools to plan exactly where your implant goes.
So, if your case isn’t simple or you need a lot of repairs, an oral surgeon is probably your best choice.
Periodontists: Gums and Implants
Healthy gums are super important for implants. That’s why periodontists—who know all about gums—can be really helpful if you had gum disease or need extra bone.
How can periodontists help?
- They do more years of school to learn about gums and jawbone.
- Periodontists are really good at fixing and shaping gums and bone.
- If you need help with gum problems or need some bone added (like a bone graft), go see a periodontist.
They use new tools and good materials to help you heal faster and get great results.
Prosthodontists: The Art of Tooth Replacement
Think of prosthodontists like artists for your teeth. They know how to make teeth look real and feel right, especially when you want your new teeth to look extra nice.
Who should see a prosthodontist?
- People who need a bunch of teeth replaced
- Anyone who wants their new teeth to look really natural
- Cases where the teeth line up in a weird way or you need a big makeover
Prosthodontists care about how your teeth look and work. They’ll often work with partners in a dental ceramics lab to make perfect crowns, bridges, or dentures.
General Dentists with Extra Training
Not every dental implant case is hard. Sometimes, you just need one tooth replaced. If that’s you, a general dentist who has special implant training may work just fine.
What to ask your dentist:
- How many implants have you done?
- Do you use 3D pictures or modern tools to plan?
- Do you have photos before and after of people you helped?
If you already like your dentist and your case is easy, you might not need a specialist. Just make sure your dentist stays up-to-date with new implant tools. If you need a bunch of work done, check if they use a professional implant dental laboratory for strong, long-lasting results.
How to Choose the Best Dentist for Implants
Here’s the big question. How can you tell who’s the best dentist for your dental implants?
What you should look for:
You wouldn’t buy a car without looking under the hood. Picking out a dentist is just as important—check them out!
Questions You Should Ask Before Making a Decision
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Take this list to your appointment:
- What training did you do for dental implants?
- How many dental implants have you put in? How often do they turn out good?
- Do you use 3D scans or digital tools?
- Can I look at pictures of others you’ve helped?
- What could go wrong, and what would you do if that happens?
- How long will all this take?
- Do you have payment plans or work with insurance?
- Can I reach you if I have a problem after surgery?
When you get these answers, you’ll feel more sure and safe!
What Happens During the Dental Implant Process?
Getting dental implants can sound scary, but here’s how it usually goes:
Do Dental Implants Last Forever?
Lots of people want to know—do dental implants really last all your life?
Here’s the truth:
- Research shows dental implants work 95-98% of the time after 10 years!
- 90% still work after 10-15 years.
- Implants can last your whole life if you take care of them—brush, floss, and visit your dentist.
If you miss check-ups or smoke, you could have problems. Gum problems or infections can also cause issues, so don’t ignore any pain or swelling.
How Can I Get the Best Results?
Here’s how you can get the most from your dental implants:
- Choose a dentist who has done lots of implants and uses new tools.
- Don’t skip cleanings or X-rays—follow-up care is a must.
- If you grind your teeth at night, protect your implants with a night guard dental lab piece.
- Tell your dentist about any health problems (like diabetes), since healing can be slower.
Keep your check-ups and brush and floss—your new teeth will help you eat, talk, and smile for a long time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can kids get dental implants?
A: Implants are for adults and teens whose jaws have finished growing. Little kids should wait until their jaw is finished growing.
Q: Are dental implants painful?
A: Most people say, “It was easier than I thought!” Dentists numb you or give you medicine so you don’t feel it. You may feel sore after, but medicine and ice help.
Q: What if I’m allergic to metal?
A: Tell your dentist. Most implants are titanium, but there are also zirconia (metal-free) implants.
Q: Will insurance pay for dental implants?
A: Sometimes insurance helps with the cost, mostly if you can’t chew or it hurts your health. Ask your dentist to help look at your plan.
Q: What’s the difference between implants and dentures?
A: Dentures sit on your gums and can move. Implants are stuck in your jaw and feel more like real teeth.
Summary: Key Points to Remember
- Dental implants are a good way to replace missing teeth that look and feel natural.
- Different dentists (oral surgeons, periodontists, prosthodontists, general dentists with extra learning) can put in implants—pick based on your needs.
- Check experience, training, reviews, and technology before you choose your dentist.
- Implants can last forever if you care for them and see your dentist for check-ups.
- Ask questions and be sure you feel comfortable before you start.
- Use good dental labs for crowns, bridges, or dentures to get the best results.
- Talk to your dentist about paying, taking care of your implants, and what to expect.
Still got questions? It’s a smart move to ask a pro and get all the info you want. The right dentist will help you with every step so you can have a happy, healthy smile!
