4 Types Of Dentists To Consider For Your Dental Implant Needs
by Julia Gregory
If you are missing permanent teeth, one option you have is to get dental implants. Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth, or multiple missing teeth. An implant starts with a titanium post that is placed in your gum. A replacement tooth that is then fitted onto the post. The process typically occurs over a period of several months. Once complete, you are left with a great smile. In most cases, people will not even be able to tell that you have dental implants!
The American Dental Association does not recognize just one type of specialist who can do dental implants. Instead, there are four different types of dental specialties that are capable of completing the process. Sometimes you will work with several different types of specialists for this procedure, since it covers a large span of dental branches.
General Dentist
Your general dentist may be able to complete the procedure for you. A general dentist will not complete the process unless they are properly trained and confident in the procedure. However, there are other types of dentists who may be better qualified and might be better able to assist with your unique dental implant needs. If your dentist can't complete the procedure, they will refer you to a colleague who is an expert in the field.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (Oral Surgeon)
An oral surgeon is the surgical specialist in the dental field. You may associate an oral surgeon with his or her ability to remove wisdom teeth, a common procedure that many people endure at some point. After becoming a dentist, these highly trained professionals receive an additional four years in a surgical residency program. They are also trained in anesthesiology. An oral surgeon is trained to handle dental implants, since the process of inserting the rod into your jawbone is considered surgery.
Periodontist
A periodontist goes through three additional years of school after becoming a dentist. They primarily work with the support structures of teeth. This includes the gums and bones in your mouth. They focus on preventing and treating periodontal disease. Since much of the work involved in dental implants focuses on the gums and bone in your mouth, a periodontist is qualified to perform the procedure.
Prosthodontist
These dental specialists focus on dental prostheses, restoration and replacement of teeth. They receive up to four additional years of training after becoming a dentist, and focus on restoring both the appearance and function of teeth. This is the only branch of dentistry that is considered highly qualified to perform cosmetic dentistry. Prosthodontists are very skilled at working with dental implants. They are well trained in the properly placing the teeth.
Each of these may have different price ranges, so be sure to speak with multiple specialists if you're looking for affordable dental implants for your budget.
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About Me
The decision to move one of my parents into assisted living was one of the most difficult I have ever made. I had extreme feelings of guilt that led to me being at the facility with my parent practically around the clock. It took a few months before I realized that I could not let my own life fall apart from the guilt I was feeling. I also learned that my parent was fine without me constantly hovering around. Since that time, I have had several friends express similar feelings of guilt. I started this blog to help others in the same situation understand not only their feelings about assisted living, but those of their parents.