Have you ever heard about an implantologist? This is a dental specialist who focuses on the planning, placement, and maintenance of dental implants. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or full dentures. This field requires a deep understanding of oral anatomy, surgical techniques, and prosthetic restoration.
Becoming an implantologist involves extensive education and training. Their bachelor’s degree will typically have a focus on science courses like biology, chemistry, and physics. Dental school involves four years of theory and practice of basic dental anatomy, diagnosis and treatment to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Needless to say, to obtain this degree, there is a required amount of hands-on experience. Implantologists then have additional postgraduate training in implantology, which can be obtained through residency programs, continuing education courses, and certifications from professional organizations such as the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) or the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI).
Implantologists perform a variety of procedures related to dental implants:
– Initial assessment and planning: This involves a thorough examination of the patient’s oral and overall health, including the use of X-rays, CT scans, and 3D imaging to evaluate bone density and structured. With this information, the implantologist assesses the best location for the dental implants, the amount, type, brand, and size of implants, and creates a detailed treatment plan.
– Bone grafting: In cases where the patient does not have sufficient bone density to support an implant, the implantologist may perform bone grafting, which means adding bone material, synthetic or otherwise, to the jaw to create a stable foundation for the implant.
– Sinus lift: This procedure raises the sinus floor and adds bone to the upper jaw, making room to place implants in the upper molars. Implantologists must gently raise the sinus membrane to pack bone graft underneath.
– Implant placement: The core procedure of an implantologist’s work involves surgically placing the dental implant into the jawbone. This is typically done under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case and the patient’s comfort level.
– Post Op: After placement, the implantologist will provide the post-op care instructions and address any concerns that may arise in the healing process. Remember the implants must integrate with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, which can take several months.
– Restoration: Once the implant has successfully integrated, either the implantologist or a skilled dentist will uncover the implant and attach an abutment to the implant. The abutment serves as the connection point for the replacement tooth or teeth. Then, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the abutment, completing the restoration.
Implantologists play a crucial role in restoring dental function and aesthetics for patients with missing teeth. Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional, removable dentures and fixed bridges, including improved stability, durability, and a more natural look and feel. By providing these advanced restorative options, implantologists help enhance patients’ quality of life, enabling them to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Patient welfare is a top priority for implantologists. They work closely with patients to address their concerns, explain treatment options, and ensure a comfortable experience throughout the implant process. Pain management, infection control, and personalized treatment plans are essential aspects of their practice. In fact, implantologists often collaborate with other dental and medical professionals, including general dentists, periodontists, oral surgeons, and prosthodontists in an interdisciplinary approach that ensures that patients receive the most comprehensive treatment possible.
The field of implantology is relatively new and continues to evolve with advancements in technology and materials. Modern techniques such as computer-guided implant surgery, digital impressions, and minimally invasive procedures have improved the accuracy and efficiency of implant placement.
In summary, an implantologist is a highly trained dental specialist dedicated to restoring the function and aesthetics of patients’ teeth through dental implants. At the Costa Rica Dental Team, we count with two highly skilled implantologists, Dr. Briceño and Dr. Carr, both of whom have been with us for years. We trust their knowledge and believe they are play a pivotal role in the success of your restoration, however extensive it may be. Are you in need in one or several implants at an affordable price? Contact us now to find out how!
