Dental Implant Team
The aging population suggests that dental professionals will continue to see an increase in the number patients who are interested in receiving dental implant. The changing needs and active lifestyles of older patients also support this increases popularity of implants. In recent years, the number of implant cases have drastically increased. Successful implants require good communication and execution of the entire dental implant team.
While it can vary, the dental professionals involved in the implant process will often include an oral surgeon, restorative dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, lab technician, dental business staff, and endodontist or orthodontist when necessary. It is critical for each team member to have open communication throughout the entire procedure. Team members involved with the procedure must also communicate well with the patient.
Surgeon
The implant specialist or oral surgeon will typically take the lead on placing the implants. General dentists who have received the proper training can also lead the implant procedure.
Restorative Dentist
It is possible for the restorative dentist to be a specialist or general dentist. They act as the implant team coordinator and their role is vital. Dentists should be thorough in their evaluation of implant candidates. This helps to ensure that no underlying conditions are overlooked and aids in a successful procedure. The restorative dentist may also have the following responsibilities:
- Coordinate implant placement
- Determine the optimal placement of the implant
- Direct additional implant team members throughout the procedure
- Lead prosthetic treatment plan
Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists who have experience and training specific to implants add a great deal of value. To aid the dental hygienists in the latest implant technology, products, and trends it is helpful for them to complete continuing education (CE) courses. Hygienists can increase their implant knowledge by reviewing educational articles.
Key roles that dental hygienists play in the implant procedure include the patient selection, assessment of maintenance, and educating patients on post-operative oral hygiene. Following completion of the implant procedure, the dental hygienist takes the lead as the team coordinator. It is important that the hygienist continues to communicate with the surgeon to ensure the procedure is successful.
Patient Selection
Most patients are excellent candidates for dental implants. Dental hygienists are often in close contact with the patient and maintain a relationship with the patient long after the implant procedure is complete. When a patient is considering dental implants, hygienists are an excellent resource for the patient.
To determine if patients are good candidates for implants, the dental professional needs to know their medical history. The patient’s medical history is needed in order to determine the possible treatment options. The dental implant team also needs to be aware of patients who are not good candidates for dental implants. Patients who are not good candidates for the procedure include patients who smoke, those who are medically compromised, patients with periodontal disease, and those who are unable or unwilling to perform the necessary oral hygiene. The dental professional may disqualify potential candidates based on their past experience.
Once a patient communicates their interest in the implant procedure and they are confirmed to be a good candidate, the dental hygienist can work to educate them on the implant procedure and expectations. Educational resources may include videos, websites, brochures, referrals and other resources. Because it combines both surgical and restorative treatments, the dental implant procedure is unique.
The surgical and prosthetic methods used to place dental implants have changed significantly over time. These changes and enhancements have improved the procedure and minimized the limitations. Although some limitations still exist, most patients make excellent candidates for receiving implants. The increased popularity of implants has also increased expectations for a successful outcome.
For simple implant cases, it is perfectly safe for a trained and experienced general dentist to assume the lead over the implant procedure. This includes cases where patients have the necessary bone density and cases which have no periodontal concerns. Complex cases such as those with periodontal disease or those which require bone grafts, a more comprehensive team is needed. These more complex cases are also becoming more common as these patients are often missing one or more teeth.
Below is a summary of the team members who are often included in executing dental implants:
- General dentist or specialist: competent in basic dental implant treatment and diagnosis, qualified in basic periodontal diagnosis and therapy, and has completed dental implant specific training
- Dental nurse: capable of providing surgical assistance to the dentist and perioperative care to the patient
- Dental hygienist: focuses on educating patients on dental implant maintenance and care
- Dental technician: trained and qualified in dental implant procedures