How to Be Implant Dentist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 27, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Implant dentistry is a specialized field of dentistry that deals with the placement of dental implants to replace missing teeth. The process begins with the dentist assessing the patients oral health and jawbone structure to determine if an implant can be placed. If so, the patient undergoes a surgical procedure to insert a titanium post into the jawbone.

Over time, this post fuses to the bone, serving as a stable anchor for the prosthetic tooth. The benefits of implant dentistry include improved appearance, better bite and chewing function, increased confidence, and increased longevity of the prosthetic tooth. However, there are some risks associated with the procedure such as infection, nerve damage, and sinus issues.

Patients should discuss these risks with their dentist before proceeding with implant dentistry.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelors Degree. Before you can become an implant dentist, you must first earn a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university. Depending on the state you are in, you may need to complete a degree in the sciences such as biology, chemistry, or physics, though some states allow students to pursue any major they choose.
Take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT). To be accepted into dental school, you must pass the Dental Admissions Test (DAT). This is a computer-based exam that assesses your aptitude in areas such as biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, perceptual ability and reading comprehension.
Attend an Accredited Dental School. After passing the DAT, you must attend an accredited dental school and complete the necessary coursework to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. During your dental school education, you may be able to specialize in implant dentistry.
Pass National Board Exams. To practice dentistry in the United States, you must pass both Parts I and II of the National Board Dental Examinations. Part I covers basic sciences, while Part II covers clinical sciences, such as diagnosis and treatment planning, periodontics, endodontics and prosthodontics.
Earn a Certificate in Implant Dentistry. Once you have completed your dental education and passed the national board exams, you must complete a post-doctoral residency program in implant dentistry or earn a certificate of advanced graduate studies in implant dentistry. This certificate program may require you to complete up to 500 hours of coursework and laboratory work.
Become Certified in Implant Dentistry. To become a certified implant dentist, you must pass the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry (ABOI/ID) exam. This exam tests your knowledge of implant dentistry and requires a minimum of 25 cases with satisfactory results. Once you pass the exam, you will be board certified and can call yourself an implant dentist.

Being a skilled and competent implant dentist requires a significant amount of training and experience. Firstly, it is essential to have a good understanding of the anatomy of the mouth and skull and the surgical techniques used for implant placement. Secondly, a thorough knowledge of the types of materials and implants available, as well as the technology used to place them, is also essential.

a dentist must have expertise in dental radiology and be able to accurately interpret the images they take. Furthermore, they must be familiar with the use of local anesthetics and sedation techniques to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Finally, a successful implant dentist must be able to manage any complications that may arise during the placement or aftercare of the implant.

All of these skills require extensive training and education, making it vital for any potential implant dentist to invest in comprehensive continuing education courses and training.

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Job Description

Diagnose dental conditions and develop treatment plans for patients.
Perform implant surgeries and other procedures related to dental implants.
Take X-rays, molds, and impressions of patients teeth and gums.
Place and secure dental implants in the jawbone.
Monitor patients progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Educate patients on proper oral hygiene and other preventive care measures.
Create dentures, bridges, crowns, and other prosthetic devices for the replacement of missing teeth.
Create and maintain patient records, including medical history and treatment plans.
Schedule appointments and maintain patient schedules.
Collaborate with other dental professionals to discuss treatment plans and patient needs.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of dental anatomy and physiology
Mastery of implant dentistry procedures, including implant placement, restoration, and maintenance
Ability to diagnose and treat various dental conditions
Knowledge of local and national regulations related to implant dentistry
Understanding of the importance of patient education and consent
Excellent communication skills and ability to build relationships with patients and staff
Strong organizational and time management skills
Expertise in X-ray equipment and computer imaging systems
Knowledge of dental materials and their application
Working knowledge of various implant systems and their components
Ability to work with a variety of hand tools and dental instruments
Ability to work safely and maintain a sterile environment

Implant dentistry is a specialized field of dentistry that requires an extensive level of knowledge and skill. The most important skill for an implant dentist to have is a thorough understanding of oral anatomy and surgical techniques. This includes being familiar with the structure and function of the teeth, jawbone, and gums, as well as being able to identify and diagnose problems in these areas.

In addition, an implant dentist needs to be knowledgeable about the latest dental implant technologies, such as osseointegration, which enables a secure and permanent bond between the implant and the jawbone. This requires a strong level of understanding of the material properties of both the implant and the jawbone. Finally, an implant dentist must possess excellent communication skills in order to effectively explain treatment options to patients and ensure that they understand all of their options.

With these skills, an implant dentist can offer patients the best possible care and results.

Forensic Dentist, Dental Practice Administrator, and Oral Medicine Specialist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in implant dentistry?
How do you keep up to date with new developments in the field of implant dentistry?
Describe a challenging case you have worked on involving implant dentistry.
What strategies have you used to successfully manage difficult patients?
What is your approach to inform patients about their implant options?
What techniques do you use to ensure accuracy when placing implants?
How do you handle the stress of performing implant surgery?
What measures do you take to ensure patient safety during implant surgery?
How do you collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure patient satisfaction?
Describe a situation in which you had to make a difficult decision related to implant dentistry.

Common Tools in Industry

Dental Drill. A tool used to cut and shape dental materials (eg: drilling a filling cavity).
Dental X-Ray Machine. A tool used to take X-ray images of the teeth and jaws (eg: diagnosing cavities).
Dental Implant Driver. A tool used to insert and secure dental implants into the jawbone (eg: securing a dental implant).
Impression Tray. A tool used to make an impression of the mouth which is used to create custom teeth restorations (eg: creating a crown).
Surgical Scalpel. A tool used to perform delicate procedures such as tooth extractions or root canals (eg: removing a wisdom tooth).
Oral Prophylaxis Tool. A tool used to clean teeth and remove plaque (eg: cleaning teeth during a routine checkup).

Professional Organizations to Know

Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)
American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID)
American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS)
American Association of Endodontists (AAE)
American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologists (AAOMP)
American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS)
American College of Prosthodontists (ACP)
American Dental Association (ADA)
American Society for Dental Aesthetics (ASDA)
American Society for Dental Ethics (ASDE)
Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS)
International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI)
World Clinical Laser Institute (WCLI)

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Common Important Terms

Dental Crowns. A type of restoration that covers a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its function and appearance.
Dental Bridges. A fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth.
Dental Implants. A titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture.
Bone Grafting. The process of placing bone material into an area of the jawbone to increase its size and strength for dental implants.
Prosthodontics. A specialized field of dentistry that focuses on restoring and replacing teeth and other oral structures with prosthetic devices.
Porcelain Veneers. A thin porcelain shell that is permanently bonded to the front of a tooth to improve its shape, size, and appearance.
Periodontics. The field of dentistry focused on diagnosing and treating diseases that affect the tissues surrounding the teeth.
Oral Surgery. Surgery performed in the mouth, including procedures to remove wisdom teeth, place dental implants, or repair a fractured jaw.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Implant Dentist?

An Implant Dentist is a professional dentist who specializes in the placement of dental implants. These implants are used to replace missing teeth and to support dental prosthetics such as dentures and bridges.

How long does it take for a dental implant to be placed?

Depending on the type of implant being placed, the process can take anywhere from 1 to 6 months. The implant must first be placed into the jawbone, followed by a period of healing before the artificial tooth is attached.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants can provide a natural-looking and long-lasting solution to missing teeth. They look and feel like natural teeth, can improve speech and chewing ability, and can help to preserve facial structure by preventing bone loss in the jaw.

What type of anesthesia is used for dental implant procedures?

Local anesthesia is typically used for dental implant procedures. This allows the patient to remain awake and alert during the procedure, while numbing the area to ensure a comfortable experience.

Are there any risks associated with dental implants?

There is a risk of infection or damage to surrounding teeth or tissue, but this risk is minimized when performed by a qualified Implant Dentist. Other risks may include nerve damage, sinus problems, or failure of the implant to integrate properly with the bone.