One of the most common reasons that patients visit an oral surgeon is to replace their missing teeth. Since dental implant procedures have sparked so much interest, numerous dental practitioners and corporate dental companies now also offer dental implant placement services. But unfortunately, while many of these practitioners are dental professionals, they don’t have the same level of training as an oral surgeon. For this reason, we urge you to ask very specific questions of your doctor prior to making your selection for your dental implant procedure. Here is a list of 5 questions you want to ask any doctor you are considering for your dental implant needs.
- What kind of training have you received? Many patients don’t realize that dental practitioners can gain a certain level of dental implant training during a weekend course. Adequate training and experience are irreplaceable. Oral surgeons are required to complete years of additional training and gain in-hospital experience through their residency program before becoming licensed to practice.
- How many dental implants have you placed in your career? Once again, this highlights the amount of experience they have placing dental implants. Most dental professionals are not trained specialists and do not consistently (or even regularly) perform dental implant placement procedures. Oral surgeons place dental implants often, so you should expect them to answer this question with a high number if they are properly trained and qualified to perform this procedure in their practice.
- What is your success rate with placing dental implants? You want to ensure your doctor knows the procedure and is almost always successful – this will show what kind of recovery rate you will endure and how predictable their procedure is. You should expect at least a 95 percent success rate.
- How long will the procedure take? All dental implant procedures take some time and should not be rushed, but you should know that with how sophisticated dental implants are, it should not take that long to complete the procedure. Most typical dental implants should take no more than half an hour to an hour to place.
- Why wouldn’t I qualify for dental implants? When you inquire about dental implants, every individual has a different set of circumstances and health history. A trained professional like an oral surgeon will always want to meet with you before promising any type of procedure. Through scheduling a consultation appointment, you will receive a thorough examination, and they will discuss your medical history or other factors that may contribute to forming a treatment plan.
You must have all the information you need to make the best decision you possibly can for your overall health and oral health. Dentists and other dental professionals may claim they can place dental implants, but you cannot be sure what kind of treatment you are receiving unless you ask these crucial questions. You want to make sure you are getting the best! Always look for someone who has extensive experience and knowledge about every aspect of dental implant procedures.
When you select a trained oral surgeon, you are sure to get both knowledge and experience! If you still have questions, or you are ready to come in and meet our skilled team, please feel free to contact Pikes Peak Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center to schedule a consultation.
