Why Choose an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon for Dental Implants
Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. Choosing the right professional to place your implants is very important. At Highland Oral Surgery & Implant Center, Dr. Bishop, a board-certified oral & maxillofacial surgeon, provides expert care that ensures safety, comfort, and excellent results.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a tiny titanium post that takes the place of a missing tooth’s root. It is placed directly into the jawbone and acts as a strong support for a crown, bridge, or denture. Implants feel and work like real teeth, letting you eat, talk, and smile with confidence.
Why an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon Makes All the Difference
Years of Specialized Training
After dental school, Dr. Bishop spent years in intensive surgical programs. We’re talking about training that goes deep into bone work, soft-tissue management, and navigating complex facial anatomy—all crucial to placing implants that last.
Unmatched Knowledge of Your Anatomy
Your mouth isn’t simple. There are nerves, sinuses, blood vessels, and varying bone densities to consider. Oral surgeons study this anatomy extensively, which reduces risks and allows more precise implant placement.
Ready for Anything
Most implant procedures go smoothly, but occasionally challenges come up—maybe there’s not enough bone, or a sinus is in the way. Oral surgeons are trained to handle these situations on the spot, whether that means bone grafting or adjusting the surgical approach.
Comfort Options That Work for You
Nervous about the procedure? Dr. Bishop offers IV sedation and general anesthesia options. You can be comfortably relaxed or even asleep during the surgery, while being monitored by professionals trained in anesthesia safety.
Better Long-Term Results
Studies consistently show that implants placed by oral surgeons have higher long-term success rates. Proper surgical technique from the start means your implant is more likely to stay healthy for decades.
Dental Implants vs. Implants by General Dentists
Feature | Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon (Dr. Bishop) | General Dentist |
Years of Surgical Training | 4–6 years beyond dental school | Short continuing education courses |
Complexity Handling | Can handle advanced cases, bone grafting, sinus lifts | Limited to simpler cases |
Sedation Options | IV sedation and general anesthesia available | Usually local anesthesia only |
Complication Management | Trained to manage surgical complications | May need referral to specialist |
Long-Term Outcomes | High success rates due to precise placement | Variable success, depends on training |
Thinking About Dental Implants?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bishop today to learn how oral surgery can give you safe, lasting, and natural-looking results. Our team will guide you step by step and answer all your questions.
FAQ
What is the difference between a dentist and an oral surgeon?
Your regular dentist provides general dental care, such as cleanings, fillings, and routine checkups. An oral surgeon is a specialist who performs surgical procedures, including dental implants, wisdom tooth removal, jaw surgery, and treatment of facial injuries.
What is bone grafting, and why is it needed?
Bone grafting is a procedure where we add bone material to strengthen or rebuild your jawbone. It’s needed when you don’t have enough healthy bone to support a dental implant securely. This commonly happens when teeth have been missing for a while.
Can dental implants be done in one day?
Some patients qualify for same-day implants in certain situations, but most cases require multiple appointments spread over several months. This allows proper healing and ensures the implant integrates correctly with your jawbone.
Are there risks with dental implants?
Dental implants are generally very safe and have a high success rate. Still, like any surgery, there’s a slight chance of infection or the implant not working correctly. Having an experienced oral surgeon place your implant greatly lowers these risks.