Dental implants are an increasingly popular solution for individuals suffering from missing teeth, offering a permanent and natural-looking replacement. However, many patients often wonder, “Who does a dental implant?” The answer lies with a highly skilled team of professionals, each playing a vital role in the process. From the initial consultation to the placement of the implant itself, various experts contribute to ensuring the procedure’s success. In this guide, we will break down the different professionals involved in dental implant procedures, highlight their roles, and explain the entire process step by step.
Who Does a Dental Implant: Key Professionals Involved
Dental implants are not a one-size-fits-all procedure. The right dental implant requires a comprehensive understanding of both dental and medical practices. Let’s explore who performs the dental implant procedure and the different specialists involved.
1. Oral Surgeons
Oral surgeons are the primary specialists responsible for performing dental implant surgeries. They are highly trained in the diagnosis, surgical treatment, and post-operative care of patients with dental issues, including missing teeth.
Oral surgeons specialize in surgical procedures to place dental implants directly into the jawbone. They undergo extensive education, including four years of dental school and an additional four to six years of surgical residency. Oral surgeons make incisions in the gums, place the titanium posts into the jawbone, and oversee the healing process. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the surgical procedure is successful and the implant integrates properly with the bone.
2. Periodontists
Periodontists specialize in the treatment of gum disease and the placement of dental implants. Their focus is on the health of the gums and bone that support the teeth.
Periodontists specialize in the care of the gums, the tissue that surrounds the teeth and dental implants. They undergo an additional three years of training specifically focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and the surgical placement of implants. Periodontists often work in tandem with oral surgeons, particularly in cases where gum health is a concern. They prepare the site for implants, ensuring the gums are healthy and properly healed before placement.
3. Prosthodontists
Prosthodontists are the final step in the dental implant process. After the implant has been placed and has integrated with the jawbone, prosthodontists are responsible for restoring the implant with a dental crown or bridge.
Prosthodontists focus on restoring and replacing teeth, including the restoration of dental implants. After dental school, prosthodontists undergo an additional three years of specialized training focusing on advanced restorative techniques and the use of dental implants. After the implant heals, the prosthodontist designs and places a custom crown, bridge, or denture to restore the patient’s smile and function.
The Step-by-Step Process of Dental Implant Placement
Now that we know the professionals involved, let’s break down the dental implant process:
1. Consultation and Evaluation
Before the implant procedure begins, your dentist or implant specialist will assess your oral health. This step includes detailed X-rays to check bone density and discussions about your overall health and any underlying conditions. Treatment planning will also be done to determine the most suitable implant for you.
2. Surgical Placement
An oral surgeon or periodontist will perform the surgery, placing the implant into your jawbone. The titanium post will act as a root for your new tooth. This process requires a healing period of several months, during which the bone integrates with the implant in a process known as osseointegration.
3. Abutment Placement
Once the implant has fused with the bone, the next step is to place the abutment. This small connector piece will connect the implant post to the final restoration.
4. Final Restoration
Once the implant site is fully healed, a prosthodontist will take impressions to create the final crown or bridge that fits perfectly over the abutment.
Why You Should Choose a Qualified Professional for Dental Implants
The success of your dental implant depends on the expertise of the professionals involved. Each step of the process, from the surgical placement to the final restoration, requires precision and skill. Choosing a qualified oral surgeon, periodontist, and prosthodontist ensures the procedure will be done correctly, minimizing risks and optimizing results.
Experience matters when selecting professionals who have extensive experience in dental implants. Always ask about the professional’s success rates and request to see before-and-after photos of previous patients. It is also important to choose a dental team that offers a full range of services, from initial consultation to post-operative care.
FAQs
1. What is the role of a periodontist in dental implants?
A periodontist specializes in gum health and bone structure, ensuring a solid foundation for the dental implant.
2. How long does the dental implant process take?
The process can take several months, including healing time for osseointegration, followed by the placement of the final restoration.
3. Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are generally safe, with a high success rate when performed by skilled professionals.
4. How much do dental implants cost?
Costs vary depending on location, the complexity of the procedure, and the type of restoration used. On average, dental implants can range from $1,500 to $6,000 per implant.
5. How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, though the restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years.
Conclusion
Dental implants are a transformative solution for replacing missing teeth. Understanding who does a dental implant is crucial for choosing the right professionals for the job. Oral surgeons, periodontists, and prosthodontists work together to ensure a successful procedure and restore your smile. By selecting highly skilled professionals, you can have confidence in the success of your dental implant.