My teeth are in bad shape and it sounds like I am going to need dental implants to restore my smile. I know it is best to replace missing teeth with dental implants and I have done a lot of research. The timing if finally here for me to consider moving forward. Do I need to be looking for an implant specialist or a certain designation in order to find the best dental implant dentist?

– Rod in Arizona

Rod,

You are correct that dental implants are the best solution to replace missing teeth. They are natural-looking, they function just like your normal teeth, and they also prevent facial collapse. It is also great to hear that you are doing your homework and asking the right questions as you consider making this investment.

It can be confusing when you start investigating dentists. What you may not realize is that implant dentistry is not a recognized specialty area within dentistry. That means that any dentist can make the claim to place dental implants with little advanced training on the subject. So how do you know you have found the best implant dentist in your area? Well, you need to find an implant dentist that has pursued extensive coursework and continuing education in implant dentistry. They will be able to have a thorough portfolio and patient testimonials available. A well-known and reputable organization is the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). This group is an excellent resource to help you located a reputable dentist in your geographic area. Yet, just because a dentist is on the AAID site, doesn’t guarantee their work. So don’t skip the step of personally interviewing and investigating a dentist’s experience and credentials.  Yet AAID dentist’s are members because they are typically passionate and have undergone additional training in the area. Another prestigious implant affiliation is the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI).

Hopefully this information is beneficial as you continue your research.