A dental implant is a tooth replacement solution involving a small, screw-shaped fixture, typically made of biocompatible titanium, that is surgically placed into the jawbone. This fixture serves as an artificial tooth root, providing a stable foundation for a prosthetic tooth. The implant integrates directly with the bone through a process called osseointegration, which can take several months. Because the procedure involves both a surgical phase and a restorative phase, successful placement often requires the coordinated expertise of multiple dental professionals.
The Professionals Who Place the Implant Fixture
The initial phase is the surgical placement of the titanium post into the jawbone, requiring specialized training in oral surgery and bone biology. Two dental specialties are routinely involved in this complex step.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (OMS)
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (OMS) complete four to six years of hospital-based surgical residency after dental school. Their training focuses on procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and face. This extensive background covers complex bone grafting and managing potential complications. OMS specialists are often chosen for challenging cases involving significant bone loss or anatomical risk factors.
Periodontists
The other primary specialist is the Periodontist, who completes three additional years of post-doctoral training focused on the health of the gums and supporting structures. Periodontists are experts in soft tissue management and treating gum disease, which is essential for a healthy implant environment. They are skilled in site preparation, including minor bone augmentation or soft tissue grafts. These procedures ensure the implant is securely anchored and properly surrounded by healthy gum tissue.
While specialists perform the majority of surgical placements, some General Dentists also place implants. These practitioners seek extensive continuing education and hands-on training specifically in implant surgery. However, for cases involving complex anatomy or advanced surgical needs, the specialized residency training of an Oral Surgeon or Periodontist is often preferred. The choice of provider hinges on the complexity of the patient’s oral anatomy and the extent of necessary surgical preparation.
The Professionals Who Complete the Restoration
Once the implant fixture has fused with the jawbone, the second phase begins: the restoration, which involves attaching the visible artificial tooth. This phase is typically managed by a Prosthodontist or a General Dentist.
Prosthodontists
A Prosthodontist is a recognized specialist who completes three years of advanced education focused exclusively on tooth replacement and complex oral reconstruction. They are experts in designing and fitting the final prosthetic, such as a single crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture. They focus on the biomechanics of the bite, the aesthetics, and the precise fit of the abutment (the connector piece). Prosthodontists ensure the prosthetic material matches the surrounding teeth perfectly in color and shape.
General Dentists
A General Dentist with experience in restorative implant dentistry can also handle the placement of the final crown, especially in straightforward cases. General dentists often manage the overall treatment plan and oversee the fabrication of custom prosthetic components by the dental laboratory. This phase requires meticulous attention to detail in impression-taking and prosthetic design to ensure the final tooth withstands chewing forces and blends seamlessly. The restoring dentist secures the final prosthetic device to the implant, allowing the patient to regain full function and a natural appearance.
The Different Models of Care and Team Approach
The patient experience is often determined by the model of care the providers follow.
Team Approach
The most common arrangement is the Team Approach, where two different practitioners collaborate on the case. A General Dentist or Prosthodontist typically acts as the restorative dentist and treatment coordinator, managing the diagnosis and final restoration. They refer the patient to a surgical specialist, such as a Periodontist or Oral Surgeon, for the placement of the implant fixture. This coordination ensures the surgical placement is “restoratively driven,” positioning the implant precisely to support the planned final tooth, and benefits the patient through the focused expertise of two specialists.
Single Provider Approach
A less common alternative is the Single Provider Approach, where a highly trained General Dentist or cross-trained specialist handles the entire procedure. This model offers patients a streamlined experience with enhanced continuity of care, as all phases are managed in one office by one doctor. Single-provider continuity simplifies logistics and potentially reduces miscommunication between practitioners. The choice between these models should be guided by the complexity of the case and the patient’s preference for specialized separation of duties or unified care.