What Are the Services That an Implant Dentist Provides?

An implant dentist is a dental professional who specializes in teeth replacement treatment with dental implant restorations. A dental implant is a screw-like titanium restoration that is placed into the jawbone and serves as the root of a replacement tooth (or multiple replacement teeth). In this review, we discuss the services that an implant dentist may provide.

Implant dentistry services

The services may look different depending on the implant dentist you visit. For instance, some may perform surgery themselves, while others may refer the patient to an oral surgeon for the surgical component(s) of dental implants. However, in general, the standard services that an implant dentist provides include dental X-rays, mold impressions, bone graft procedures, dental implant(s) placement, and dental implant repair.

Dental X-rays and impressions

An implant dentist may start with dental X-rays (along with an oral examination) during a consultation visit. This helps them learn more about the patient's oral health and teeth replacement needs so they can make a more informed recommendation as to whether dental implants would make a viable treatment solution. Implant dentists also perform dental impressions. The mold from the impressions is used to customize the patient’s new set of teeth later in the treatment process.

Bone graft procedure

A bone graft procedure may be necessary before dental implant placement, especially if the patient has bone loss in the jaw because otherwise, there may not be enough jawbone to adequately support the implants, increasing the risk of implant failure. Many implant dentists perform the bone graft procedure in their office, though some may recommend the patient to an oral surgeon. It is a surgical procedure, though severe side effects or complications are rare. It may take a few months for the jaw to heal before the implants can be placed.

Dental implant placement

Dental implant placement typically involves the actual process of placing the implants into the jaw. The procedure is surgical and involves drilling small holes into the jawbone and fixing the implants in the proper positions. After the mouth heals, a second procedure is scheduled to complete the restoration, which involves attaching the abutments and replacement teeth. The second procedure is much less invasive than the first, though both procedures are considered safe and have an incredibly high success rate.

Dental implant repair

If any issues arise with the dental implants after they are placed, the implant dentist can repair them (or reposition them) inside the jaw. This ensures an optimal fit, comfort level, and functionality for the implants and the replacement teeth that are attached to the implants.