Who Is Best Qualified To Do Dental Implants?

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Dental implant surgery requires a high level of skill and experience. Not just any dental professional can perform this complex procedure correctly. 

In this blog, we will explain the qualifications and expertise that are needed to perform a successful implant surgery. We will give you tips on what you should look for in an implant specialist to ensure a successful implant procedure and a healthy smile for years to come.

Table of Contents

• Why Extra Education and Training Matter
• Choosing Your Dental Implant Specialist
• Is a Periodontist or Oral Surgeon Better for Implants?
• What Sets Oral Surgeons Apart?
• Meet Our Doctors
  • Hear From Our Patients
• Your Dental Implant Specialist in Deer Park, IL

Why Extra Education and Training Matter

Dental implants aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about restoring function and improving your oral health. A poorly placed implant can lead to complications like bone loss, implant failure, or even infection.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons stand out for their advanced training and knowledge of complex surgical procedures in the mouth, jaw, and face. Their education includes:

• Undergraduate education
• Dental school
• Hospital-based residency

They learn about dental bone grafting and how to handle complicated bone structures, making them particularly adept at dental implant placement. 

This training ensures they understand the intricacies of your oral health, gum disease, and bone loss, all of which are important for ensuring long-term success of your dental implants.

Choosing Your Dental Implant Specialist

Here are some key criteria to consider when selecting your dental implant specialist:

1. Qualifications: Look for a dental professional with specific training and certification in implant dentistry. Oral surgeons and periodontists are excellent choices.
2. Experience: Inquire about the specialist’s experience with dental implant treatments. Ask about the number of cases they’ve handled and their success rates.
3. Technology: Ensure the practice uses modern technology like 3D imaging and guided implant surgery for more precise and predictable results.
4. Reviews: Read online reviews and testimonials from other patients to get insights into their experiences.
5. Consultation: Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs, goals, and expectations. This will allow you to assess the specialist’s communication style and approach.

Is a Periodontist or Oral Surgeon Better for Implants?

Both periodontists and oral surgeons are highly skilled dental professionals who are qualified to place dental implants. They both have extensive training in oral health and surgery. However, there are subtle differences in their areas of expertise.

Periodontists specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease (gum disease). They have advanced knowledge of the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and jawbone.

Oral surgeons are specialists in surgical procedures. They have extensive training in complex surgical techniques, including dental implants, bone grafting, sinus lifts, and wisdom tooth removal. They have the skills required to handle difficult cases, or cases that are deemed as “impossible” by other dental professionals. 

What Sets Oral Surgeons Apart?

• Extensive knowledge of facial anatomy: Oral surgeons have a deep understanding of the complex structures of the face and jaw, perfect for precise implant placement.
• Experience with complex cases: They routinely manage challenging cases, such as patients with extensive bone loss or complex medical histories.
• Surgical expertise: Oral surgeons are trained in a wide range of surgical techniques, ensuring they can adapt to your specific needs.
• Sedation options: They offer various sedation options, including general anesthesia, for your comfort during surgery.

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. J. Travis Thompson, DDS attended the University of Illinois Dental school and graduated in 1997. He then went on to complete a one-year residency at Fort Lewis, Washington with the U.S Army. After completing his residency, he was accepted into the Oral & Maxillofacial program at Fort Bliss, where he served as Chief of Surgery for Head, Neck and Dental Trauma Research Detachment at Great Lakes Naval Station. He became a board-certified oral surgeon in 2006..

Dr. Stephen Martin, DMD attended Furman University in Atlanta, Georgia and graduated with honors. He went on to attend the College of Dental Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, where he received an award for outstanding performance from the Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Martin is certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and has medical staff privileges at St. Alexius Medical Center.

Hear From Our Patients

“Dr. Thompson was very flexible in getting me in to see him. Then he was able to take care of my problem and prepare the area for a new implant – getting 2 visits in one. Everyone in his office is so caring and attentive.”

“Dr Thompson is really skilled and stands by his work. He and his team are very caring and detailed about explaining the procedure they are about to do. I had an issue come up 2 years after he installed an implant due to a medical issue and he is going to fix the implant without cost. You do not always see this kind of service and guarantee from the Dental and Oral Surgery industry”

“I had a great experience on my initial visit. Dr. Martin explained all my steps to get implant  and told me my best options to go through the whole process. Highly recommend Dr Martin to take care of your teeth.”

“I was very apprehensive about my oral surgery but Dr. Martin’s professional and kind consultation put me at ease. He and his staff were helpful and accommodating with scheduling my procedure before the end of the year. Also, the flowers he sent were such a nice surprise! This was a positive experience and I would highly recommend him.”

Your Dental Implant Specialist in Deer Park, IL

Dental implants are an investment in your oral health and overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to research and ask questions to find a dental implant specialist that will provide you with the highest level of care and expertise. Remember, a healthy and confident smile is priceless.

At Oral Facial and Implant Specialists, our experienced oral surgeon, Dr. J. Travis Thompson, has extensive training and expertise in dental implant surgery. We use state-of-the-art technology for precise and predictable outcomes.

If you live in Lake Zurich, Barrington or Buffalo Grove, IL and are searching for ‘dental implants in Deer Park, IL’ or  ‘an oral surgeon near me’ we can help!. Call (847) 381-0106 to book a free dental implant consultation or complete the online inquiry form.