2363 W March Lane, Stockton, CA 95207

Call for a consultation for implant dentistry: 209-242-2977

Dr. Ivan Chicchon received his DDS from the University of the Pacific in San Francisco.

Broad Generalizations:

Cone Beam CT can be used to make surgeries less invasive and more predictable.

Surgical placement of implants is one thing, but the prosthetic restoration or “putting the teeth on” is a very technique sensitive and complex process -- especially when it comes to full mouth rehabilitations. Because a prosthodontist takes the case from start-to-finish, they might be the best specialty to decide how the implant should be placed to have the best cosmetic result with the best prosthetic longevity.

Most single tooth replacements can be handled by a general dentist who is properly trained in implant placement.

If considering replacing more than one missing tooth, consider having a consultation with a prosthodontist to know all of your options.

If you are considering implant dentures (aka permanent dentures or All-on-Four), DEFINITELY see a prosthodontist.

If you have been told you have limited bone volume, consider having a consultation with an oral surgeon or periodontist.

For added precision and predictability of the procedure, ask if your dentist uses Cone Beam CT for implant surgeries.

There are many short-courses or even “mini-residencies” that train general dentists in implant placement. And I would say that most of the general dentists who offer implant treatment, do excellent work.

However, especially for cosmetic or complex cases, it would be prudent to seek the opinion of a specialist who has encountered and dealt with both prosthetic and surgical implant complications during their residency. The downside to seeing a specialist is that you pay a premium for their services.

Of course in some cases, such as with patients with limited amount of bone, more advanced surgical technique may be required. For procedures such as a sinus lift, or significant bone grafting, it may be necessary to incorporate a periodontist or oral surgeon into the team. However, with the use of advanced imaging (Cone Beam CT), most surgical obstacles can be managed on a computer before the operation. On the right is a series of pictures from one of my cases.

Periodontists focus their treatment on surgical procedures of the gums and jawbone. They offer procedures such as gum grafting, bone augmentation, sinus lifting, crown lengthening, implant placement, as well as deep cleanings.

Oral surgeons are trained in surgical procedures of the entire maxillo-facial complex. Their scope encompasses the head & neck region including the bones of the jaws, cheeks, and orbit. Implant placement is also included in their training.

Prosthodontists are the specialists in all modalities of replacing teeth. Their training focuses on extensive crown & bridge work, dentures, and dental implants. Not only do they receive training in the surgical placement of implants, they are the only specialty which focuses on “putting teeth on” the implants as well.

It seems like every dentist "does implants" these days. That can leave patients confused about which doc to see for their treatment.

With so many implant specialists out there with titles like “periodontist”, “prosthodontist”, “oral surgeon”, and even “implant surgeon” (which not a recognized specialty)-- choosing a dental office for your dental implant treatment can be an overwhelming process. Making the decision even harder is that some general dentists offer implant placement too while others do not. So where should you go?

As in other areas of healthcare, there is some overlap in the treatments provided by various specialists. Several different dental specialty programs are teaching residents how to place implants.

By Dr. Ivan Chicchon Feb 20, 2015

Which Specialist Should I Go To for Dental Implants?