Image source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/-/media/kcms/gbs/patient-consumer/images/2013/08/26/10/07/my00084_im00017_de7_dentalimplantthu_jpg.jpg
After researching all the available tooth replacement options, youve decided to replace your missing teeth with dental implants. Great choice! But now the search begins for a trustworthy and dependable implant dentist. Although dental implants have a high success rate, rankings can vary amongst medical professionals. Because of this, its important that you select a qualified implant dentist with a high success rate to ensure you achieve desirable results.
While cost is a concern, it should not be the only deciding factor, as this could be detrimental to your outcome. A more experienced implant dentist may come at a higher price point, but you are guaranteed a better outcome with a lower risk for complications. Many implant specialists offer payment plans or accept financing options to make treatment more affordable.
Below are a few important questions to ask your potential implant dentist to give you clarity on their expertise and the type of care you can expect to receive. What Are Your Qualifications? Dental professionals must be certified to practice general dentistry by both federal and state law. However, dental implant placement requires additional training and certification. While a general dentist spends seven to eight years in earning their degree, oral surgeons go on to complete four to six years of additional education in a surgical setting. Some even go on to receive the highest level of certification by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. A board certified oral surgeon means they are equipped to provide the highest standard of care.
When meeting with the implant dentist, ask them what kind of training they have received and how many dental implant surgeries they perform. This will give you a better understanding on their educational training and experience. What Is Your Success Rate? Dental implants have a national success rate of 95 percent. An experienced implant dentist will maintain or exceed this rating. It is not offensive to ask the implant dentist what their success rate is on a particular procedure. In fact, it is in your best interest to do so. Dentists or oral surgeons with a high patient satisfaction will be proud to share their results. If this question is dismissed, you should consider a different professional.
Reading online reviews and asking friends and co-workers who they recommend for dental implant placement can also help you narrow down your search. Do You Perform Dental Implant Surgery? While some dentists promote dental implants on their website, they may actually refer you to a nearby specialist in the area for the actual placement. When meeting with your potential implant dentist, ask who will be performing the procedure so you know what to expect beforehand. Eliminating any surprises beforehand can provide peace of mind and manage your expectations. What Kind of Technology Do You Use? Implant dentistry is continually progressing and offering innovative technology for dentists to use. However, not all implant dentists use the latest technology. Finding a dentist or oral surgeon who uses CBCT (cone beam computer tomography) is a good indicator that they stay up to date with the newest techniques in dental implants. This advanced 3D scanning device can capture high-resolution images of your teeth and jawbone in a matter of minutes. A CBCT scan can detect surrounding tissues, nerve pathways, and sinus cavities to ensure precise treatment planning and adequate implant placement. What Kind of Sedation Do You Use? Not all implant dentists are certified in sedation dentistry. Although dental implants can be placed under local anesthesia, stronger sedation will eliminate any anxiety and provide optimal comfort. Most oral surgeons administer IV anesthesia so patients can achieve a deep, sleep-like state throughout the entire procedure.
If you are looking for a board certified oral surgeon in Tarrant County, please visit https://txoss.com to learn more about Texas Oral Surgery Specialists in Colleyville, TX.
