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Selection Criteria
Keep in mind that dental implants have a very high success rate, but only in the hands of experienced doctors. The following information can assist you in selecting the ideal option for implant treatment:
Questions for the Doctor Placing Implants
If the doctor who is surgically placing the implants is an oral surgeon or a periodontist, they have had a residency program in surgical procedures as part of their training. So, you can simply ask the following questions.
- How long has the doctor been placing implants and how many implants does the doctor place each year?
- How long has the doctor been working with the doctor who will be restoring the implants? How many cases have they done together?
- Does the doctor have before and after photos to show the results that they have been able to achieve as a team?
If you are considering having a general dentist, prosthodontist or endodontist place the implants, ask the following questions:
- How many surgical training courses has the doctor taken and how long was each course?
- How many courses has the doctor taken specifically on the management of complications?
- How many continuing education courses on implants does the doctor attend on a yearly basis?
- How long has the doctor been placing implants and how many implants does the doctor place each year?
- Does the doctor have before and after photos to show the results that he/she is able to achieve?
If your treatment plan requires additional procedures to enhance the final esthetic and functional results, such as bone augmentation, ask how many of these procedures the doctor has done.
Questions for the Doctor Restoring the Implants
- How long has the doctor been restoring implants and how many implants does the doctor restore each year?
- How long has the doctor been working with the doctor who will be placing the implants? How many cases have they done together?
- Does the doctor have before and after photos to show the results that they have been able to achieve as a team?
Doctors who are actively involved in implant dentistry on a daily basis should be more than willing to provide patient testimonials and references, as well as multiple before and after photos of their cases. |
