In this blog post, we’re here to clear up those questions so you can decide where to go for your dental implant procedure, while having confidence in your chosen dentist. We’ll discuss what to look for and whether specialists are needed, so you can make a more informed decision about which dentistry clinic you choose to go to for your implants.
Can a general dentist do implants?
One of the most common queries we encounter is whether general dentists can perform dental implant procedures. The short answer is yes, but there’s more to it than meets the eye.
There is no distinct difference in qualifications between general dentists who occasionally perform implant procedures and those who have made implantology their primary focus, as is the case with our dental experts at Advanced Dental Artistry.
While there are specialists, such as prosthodontists, who specialise in dental implants, the majority of implant dentists, even the highly skilled ones, are general dental practitioners who have sought out additional training. The big difference comes from the level of commitment and dedication to the field.
At Advanced Dental Artistry, we have a team of general dentists who have made dental implantology their passion and have undergone extensive training to provide the highest quality of care for our patients.
How to pick a dentist for implants
Dental implants are a slightly more invasive surgical procedure compared to many other dental treatments. They involve the precise placement of titanium implant posts into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots, onto which dental prosthetics like crowns, bridges, or dentures are securely anchored. The intricacy of this process highlights the importance of experience in the field, as it can significantly impact the success and comfort of the implantation procedure.
Choosing the right dentist for your dental implant procedure is a critical decision that can significantly impact your outcome. To help you make an informed choice, we recommend asking the following questions to decipher the difference in quality and experience among dentists:
1. How long have they been placing implants?
Experience matters when it comes to dental implant placement. Dentists who have been placing implants for several years are likely to have encountered a wide range of cases and challenges, leading to improved expertise.
2. How often do they place implants?
Frequency matters too. Dentists who regularly perform implant procedures are more likely to stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies in the field, ensuring better outcomes for their patients.
3. Have they had good exposure to implant challenges?
Dental implant procedures can be complex, and challenges can arise. It’s essential to choose a dentist who has faced and overcome various challenges to ensure they can handle any unexpected issues that may arise during your treatment.
4. Do they have any statistics on their success rate?
A dentist’s success rate is a strong indicator of their skill and expertise. Ask for statistics on their implant success rate to gauge their track record.
5. Do they have a full surgical setup?
A fully equipped surgical setup is essential for performing dental implant procedures safely and effectively. Ensure that your chosen dentist has access to the necessary equipment and facilities.
Cosmetic dentist vs. general dentist
A cosmetic dentist and a general dentist share the same foundation of education and training in dental care. There is no defining title or qualification between a dentist who rarely does smile makeovers and one who defines their whole career around it.
However, a dentist focusing on cosmetic treatments has chosen to provide aesthetic treatments that enhance the appearance of teeth and smiles. This focus often involves additional training and expertise in cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Are all dentists dental surgeons?
Another common question is whether all dentists are dental surgeons. The answer to this is no. While all dentists undergo extensive training to become licensed practitioners, dental surgeons typically refer to oral and maxillofacial surgeons, who specialise in surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and facial structures.
General dentists primarily concentrate on preventive care, restorative treatments, and cosmetic dentistry. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that both restorative treatments and cosmetic procedures within these realms of general dentistry often require surgical skills and precision.
Difference between orthodontist and cosmetic dentist
Understanding the difference between an orthodontist and a cosmetic dentist is crucial when seeking specific dental treatments. Orthodontists specialise in correcting misaligned teeth and bite issues using techniques like braces and clear aligners. They are experts in straightening teeth and improving bite functionality.
Cosmetic dentists, on the other hand, focus on enhancing the appearance of teeth and smiles. They offer a range of aesthetic treatments such as teeth whitening, veneers, and dental bonding to improve the overall look of a person’s teeth. While some cosmetic dentists may also offer orthodontic services, their primary focus is generally on cosmetic enhancements.
Advanced Dental Artistry stands out for our distinctive approach to cosmetic treatments. Our focus extends beyond mere aesthetics; our treatments are meticulously crafted to enhance not only the visual appeal but also the functionality of your teeth.
There are other avenues to correct bite, such as orthodontics or botox. We focus on a full mouth reconstruction as a more permanent solution to correct your bite.
Our dentists have been completing full mouth reconstructions for over 15 years now. Full mouth treatment plans incorporate neuromuscular dentistry and porcelain veneers/crowns. We are lucky enough to have Dr Adrian & Dr Tanya here at our practice who have studied in America at the Las Vegas Institute and are trained in neuromuscular dentistry.
The Advanced Dental Artistry difference
At Advanced Dental Artistry, our cosmetic dentists are highly skilled in their craft and they combine their knowledge with an artistic touch to create stunning smiles for our patients. We offer All On 4 dental implants, bespoke porcelain veneers and tailored full mouth reconstruction.
While our cosmetic dentistry treatments undoubtedly deliver aesthetically beautiful smiles, our unwavering commitment extends beyond appearances. We place a strong emphasis on restoring optimal oral functionality, so that our patients can get back to doing the things they love.
Our All On 4 and full mouth reconstruction services are specifically tailored for individuals facing life-impacting dental issues, often stemming from conditions such as terminal or missing teeth, allowing them to regain their oral health.
Choose the right dentist for your cosmetic dentistry procedure
In the world of dentistry, distinctions exist based on specialisation, commitment to excellence and approach to patient service and care. While general dentists can perform dental implant procedures, the quality and experience they bring to the table can vary significantly.
When it comes to dental treatments and choosing the right dentist for your needs, knowledge is power. By understanding the qualifications, experience, and dedication of your chosen dentistry clinic, you can make informed decisions that lead to the best possible outcomes for your oral health.
At Advanced Dental Artistry our team of dentists have made dental implantology their passion and focus, having undergone extensive training and experience to deliver outstanding results.
If you’ve been on the hunt for an implant dentist, look no further than Advanced Dental Artistry. Led by the highly experienced Dr. Adrian Kat, who boasts over 30 years of dedicated expertise in dental implants, you can rest assured that you’re placing your trust in safe and highly skilled hands. The Advanced Dental Artistry team cares deeply about each and every one of our patients, and their comfort and satisfaction is our number one priority before anything else.
Our compassionate team is deeply committed to alleviating any dental anxiety you may have concerning your procedure. We take the time to provide clear guidance through every step of your treatment plan, ensuring your comfort on the day of your dental surgery.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today to learn more or to schedule a no-obligation phone consultation.