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Getting dental implants is a big deal. It’s not just a matter of pure expenditure but also a process that is quite an art to perfect and perform well in order to give the patient the best results that will last for a long time. If you are planning to get implants, one of the most important decisions you will be making is not only whether to get them but who you should let perform the service.
Due to the fact that there are many dentists who provide implants, it can be quite difficult to determine who is the right dentist for the job. You don’t want to have an implant that is placed wrong, looks and feels bad and can cause you a lot of problems for the rest of your life.
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So, how to choose a dental implant specialist? Here’s what to look for.
1. Training & Qualifications Matter—A Lot
It does not mean that just because a clinic is offering them, the dentist has a lot of experience in implant surgery. You need a specialist who has gone beyond the basic implantology training – not just a dentist who once attended a workshop. Ideally, look for:
✔ Advanced training in dental implants – Many top specialists have undergone postgraduate courses in implant dentistry.
✔ Oral surgeons, periodontists, or prosthodontists – These specialists are most likely to have the necessary experience when it comes to implant treatment.
✔ Accreditation from recognised organisations – BADI The British Academy of Dental Implantology, ADI (Association of Dental Implantology) and others are some of the accreditations that can show that a specialist is interested in implantology. It is perfectly okay to ask how many implants a dentist has done – any good implantologist will be more than happy to prove his or her qualification.
2. Experience: How Many Implants Have They Placed?
You would be more comfortable with a person who has completed a large number of implant procedures, than with someone who has recently qualified. An experienced implant specialist has seen it all: complicated cases, difficult bone patterns and possible post-op complications. They are able to work with you to ensure that the procedure is adapted to your case and are less likely to encounter unexpected problems.
A good question: How many implants have you placed? A good implantologist should have a lot of experience and not only with simple implants but also with complex interventions, including bone grafting or full-mouth restoration.
3. Technology & Techniques: Are They Up to Date?
Implant dentistry is one of the fastest-growing fields and the best dentists know the techniques and tools that are current.
Things to look for:
✔ 3D imaging & digital planning – The use of cone beam CT scans helps the specialists to generate a three-dimensional image of your bone and come up with a specific plan for implant placement.
✔ Guided implant surgery – Some dentists employ computer-directed placement for more accurate implantation.
✔ Modern implant systems – The best dentists use reputable and scientifically proven implant systems with high success rates. If a dentist is still using some of the techniques that were developed years ago, then that may be a cause for concern.
The right technology improves the chances of a better outcome, reduces Inflammation, and increases the life of the results.
4. Patient Reviews & Real-Life Results
An implant specialist worth his or her salt should have a lot of satisfied patients. Before scheduling an appointment, it is recommended to:
✔ Read reviews & testimonials – Search for patient reviews on sites like Google, Trustpilot, or dental discussion groups.
✔ Look at before-and-after photos – Most professional specialists will have a set of ‘before and after’ images of their patients.
✔ Ask for patient references – Some clinics may be able to put you in touch with former patients that can tell you what it was like to go through the process with the dentist.
If a specialist has positive reviews and achieves good results, then it is a sign of a good specialist.
5. Do They Offer a Comprehensive Consultation?
This is your chance to ask your questions, learn about your options and feel good about the decision you are about to make. When seeing a patient for an implant consultation, a good implant dentist will:
✔ Evaluate the patient’s oral condition – to assess the patient’s bone density, gum health and general fitness for implants.
✔ Present various choices – Implants are not a one size fits all solution. They should provide various solutions based on your situation.
✔ Be open with the prices and time frame – There should be no hidden costs or time frame.
✔ Make you feel comfortable – You shouldn’t feel like you’re being pushed into something.
If a dentist ignores your questions, describes the procedure in a vague manner, or is not willing to spell out the costs, then consider this as a warning sign.
6. Do They Provide Aftercare & Support?
The implant process does not end with the surgery. Aftercare is just as important as the treatment.
A good implant specialist will:
✔ Give specific guidelines on the aftercare – Including how to care for the implants during the healing stage.
✔ Schedule follow-up appointments – To check on your progress and check that you are healing correctly.
✔ Have a plan for the treatment of complications – In case of an emergency, they should be prepared to act.
You should feel looked after from the beginning of your implant journey until the end.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Settle—Find the Best Specialist for YOU
Dental implants are a great way to improve your smile and your quality of life, as well as your ability to chew food. But, it is the dentist that makes a lot of a difference. Take your time. Do your research. Ask the tough questions. Because when it comes to something as important as your smile, you deserve the best.
If you are planning to get implants, look for a specialist who is highly skilled, has a lot of experience in the field, and is willing to give you the best service. Your future smile will appreciate it.
For Dental Implants St Albans – click here. We are a leading local dental implants provider with highly experienced implant surgeons. We’d love to meet you to discuss you case.