How to Select a Dental Implant Specialist: Everything You Need to Know

 

Start the new year off right by upgrading your smile with a set of dental implants.

Or at least that is what you should be able to do if you can find the right surgery candidate. But finding a great dentist to work with isn’t as easy as it should be.

Finding a dentist to replace your teeth can be a complicated process. This is especially true if you’ve never been through the process before or have healthy teeth for the time being.

Here is how to select a dental implant specialist in your area.

 Select a Dental Implant Specialist: Things to Consider

With so many options for implant specialists out there, it may be a daunting task to choose the right one. That is why it is important to look for certain qualities that make a good dental implant specialist.

Doing research on potential candidates for dental implant services is one of the first steps to take. Before making a decision, it is important to identify and compare the specialists’:

Education and Training Background

The specialist should hold a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree or equivalent. They should have completed a dental implantology residency and achieved a postgraduate Certificate or Diploma in Implant Dentistry. It is also important to verify that the practitioner has completed any additional postgraduate courses related to implant dentistry.

You should also look for up-to-date memberships with professional associations, such as the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, or other national and international organizations related to implant dentistry. These memberships indicate continual training and continuing education with regard to implant dentistry. Ensure that they are highly trained in the medical field.

Verifying each of these can help ensure that the implant specialist is competent and well-trained in this specialized field.

Certification and Experience

Make sure that they are experienced and certified in the dental implant field. The specialist you select should hold any necessary certifications from reputable associations. They should have many years of experience in the field, ideally through involvement in various placements and other procedures related to implant dentistry.

Ask to see the specialist’s portfolio to ensure that you will be working with someone who can provide the successful outcome you are looking for.

Also, find out if the specialist has experience with other types of dental implants, such as sinus augmentation and tissue grafting. In some cases, your dentist or orthodontist may refer you to a specialist with specific expertise in the technology needed for your desired result.

Track Records and Procedures

You should research potential dentists by looking into their past work and how they went about their procedures. Before making an appointment, ask your potential dentist how they prefer to do the implant procedure. Check what type of implant they use, and what kind of follow-up care they provide.

Ask about the number of implant procedures completed and the outcomes of those surgeries. Ask them also for the before and after photos of their previous dental implant procedure. This is for you to get a better idea of the type of work they can do, and how successful it has been.

Also, make sure that the specialist is updated with the latest procedures, techniques, and products in the field.

Referrals and Patient Reviews

Seeking out referrals and patient reviews is an invaluable starting point. Ask your friends, family members, and colleagues for advice. Also, check out local forums and online reviews for independent opinions.

Reading online reviews from past patients can provide a good insight into the kind of care they got and the attitude of the staff. You will also know the level of cleanliness, the number of employees, and the attitude of the specialist.

When reading reviews, you should look out for comments on the overall comfort level of the patient, and their satisfaction with the results of the procedure. Knowing that previous patients are satisfied and have been happy with their results can be a big factor in the decision-making process.

Cost and Payment Options

Ensure you determine a realistic budget to cover the dental implant costs and plan. Check the specialist’s website and call the office for information about the types of payment accepted and payment plan options. There may be an option for financing with zero or low-interest rates.

To make the cost more manageable, some specialists offer discounts for payment in full at the time of service.

It is important to remember that cost should not be your only consideration because the quality of your implants affects the longevity of your implant and overall dental health. Sometimes, the lowest cost may not be worth the risk.

Check with your dental insurance to determine if the procedure or part of it is covered. Insurance or no insurance, talk to the specialist’s office staff. Ensure to get an understanding of what the final bill might be.

Clinic Location

Choose one that is in a convenient location from your home or work. So that getting to the office for check-ups and appointments and taking time off for the implant procedure and follow-up visits will be easy and hassle-free.

Furthermore, if you ever need any kind of emergency care or attention, being in close proximity to your clinic may save you time and money in getting to the specialist.

By taking the time to find the right dental implant specialist, you will be better equipped to make an informed decision. In need of All on 4 dental implants? Click this link.

Book an Appointment Now

Choosing the right dental implant specialist is imperative for the successful, long-term results of your implant. Following the steps listed above should help to ensure you select a dental implant specialist that meets your needs.

Book an appointment with your chosen specialist to get started and take the first steps in restoring your beautiful smile.

For more interesting articles, check out the rest of our blog!