Dr. Hall,
Thank you so much for your website. It has helped answer many questions that I have; specifically, regarding dental implants.
I am in need of three implants and possibly bone grafting. I would like to know more about how dentists determine if one is a good candidate for the grafting.
My general dentist wants to do implants but I would like someone who is more experienced in helping me make the right decision. I am 42 and had a bridge done when I was 16, and I can see the bone loss.
– Esther from Texas
Esther,
Your chances for success with bone grafting are best if you are in good general health. Beyond that, it is a matter of examining your x-rays and CT scans, and making a decision based on the specifics of your case.
If you have a more complicated case, which is the situation if you need bone grafting, it is good to get a dentist with strong experience in dental implants. This is a field that is like cosmetic dentistry. It isn’t a separate specialty, but it requires extensive additional training beyond dental school.
As far as finding an implant dentist, there isn’t a really good way that I know about. It’s going to involve a little guesswork, but that’s the best I think you can do. What I would do is look for a dentist who has a website, and then look for someone with strong credentials. Do a search for implant dentists in your city. Then look for evidence in the doctor’s biography of extra training in implant dentistry and professional memberships. There are organizations such as the International Congress of Oral Implantology, the Academy of Osseointegration, and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry that provide extra training in implant dentistry for dentists. You need someone with strong experience and training in this field.
I hope this is helpful,
Dr. Hall
Links:
Cosmetic dentistry
Ask Dr. Hall a question
We thank our advertisers who help fund this site. |
|
About David A. Hall
Dr. David A. Hall was one of the first 40 accredited cosmetic dentists in the world. He practiced cosmetic dentistry in Iowa, and in 1990 earned his accreditation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He is now president of Infinity Dental Web, a company in Mesa, Arizona that does advanced internet marketing for dentists.
Leave a Reply