The Benefits of Choosing a Periodontist for Your Dental Implant Needs

Who you choose to do your dental implant procedure matters. A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the health of the gums, jawbone, and supporting structures of the teeth. Their training and experience suit them to perform dental implant procedures, especially in complicated cases.

Understanding dental implants

The dental implant procedure involves several steps, including surgery involving the jawbone and supporting structures of the teeth. A provider must evaluate a patient's gums and jaws to ensure they are an appropriate candidate. Next, the surgery to place the implants is followed by the healing and osseointegration period, during which the implants must integrate with the jawbone. Later, the restoration is placed.

The above describes the simplest form of the procedure. However, it can become more complicated for certain patients and involve more steps, such as preparatory bone grafting to prepare the jawbone to receive the implants. These are just some reasons patients should consider a highly trained professional for the procedure.

What is a periodontist?

A periodontist is a dental specialist who undergoes three additional years of training after dental school. This training focuses on the health of the teeth's supporting structures and the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. In addition to providing expert treatment of gum disease, periodontists have additional expertise in placing dental implants and preparatory procedures such as bone grafting.

Benefits of choosing a periodontist for dental implant treatment

While many dentists offer dental implants, there are clear advantages to choosing a periodontist.

Expertise in gum and bone health

The health of the gums and jawbone is key to the success of dental implant procedures. They can accurately asses a patient's fitness for dental implants and advise them on how they can best prepare for the surgery. They can help ensure the implants are placed in the healthiest possible environment using their in-depth knowledge of the teeth's supporting structures.

Skilled in bone grafting and regenerative procedures

Patients may need preparatory procedures such as bone grafting to be candidates for dental implants. In addition to performing the implant procedure, a periodontist can skillfully perform these necessary preparatory procedures. In this way, they can not only offer continuity of care but also the training to deal with any potential complications that can arise during the process.

The latest technology and techniques

Periodontists typically stay current with implant dentistry's latest techniques and technologies. For example, many use 3D imaging and computer-guided placement to help ensure precise planning and accurate positioning of the implants. They are also versed in the latest innovations, such as materials promoting faster healing and longer-lasting results.