Providing the Dental Implants Berwyn Patients Love
Why the Dentist Refers You to Oral Surgeons for Dental Implants
At Cameo Dental Specialists in Berwyn, our board-certified oral surgeons work closely with referring dentists to ensure patients receive the highest level of care for dental implants Berwyn residents trust. Understanding why your dentist refers you out for implant placement can help you feel more confident about the process and the specialists involved in your care.
If your general dentist has referred you to a specialist for dental implants, you might be wondering why. After all, your dentist has been taking care of your teeth for years. Why can’t they place the implant themselves? The truth is that dental implants are a complex surgical procedure that requires advanced training, precision, and expertise. That’s where an oral surgeon comes in.
Dental Implants Require Surgical Expertise
Placing a dental implant is not like filling a cavity or placing a crown. It involves surgically inserting a titanium post into the jawbone, which then fuses with the bone over several months. This process, known as osseointegration, creates a stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
Oral surgeons are uniquely qualified for this procedure because they have completed years of specialized training beyond dental school. They are experts in oral and maxillofacial anatomy, including the nerves, sinuses, and bone structures that must be carefully navigated during implant placement. This level of training ensures that the implant is positioned with precision and that complications are minimized.
Understanding Bone Structure and Anatomy
One of the main reasons your dentist refers you to an oral surgeon is because implant placement requires an in-depth understanding of bone density, volume, and structure. Not every patient has sufficient bone to support a dental implant right away, and an oral surgeon can assess whether a bone graft is needed before the implant can be placed.
At our Berwyn office, we use advanced diagnostic tools like cone beam 3D imaging to evaluate your jawbone in three dimensions. This allows our oral surgeons to see exactly where nerves and sinuses are located and to plan the ideal placement angle and depth for the implant. General dentists may not have access to this level of imaging or surgical planning software.
Handling Complex Cases
While straightforward implant cases do exist, many patients require more than just the basic procedure. You may need:
- A bone graft to build up the jawbone
- A sinus lift to create space in the upper jaw
- Extraction of a damaged tooth before implant placement
- Treatment for gum disease before surgery can proceed
Oral surgeons are trained to handle these complexities. They can perform extractions, grafts, and implant placements in a coordinated manner, often during the same appointment. This streamlines your care and reduces the number of visits you need to make.
Reduced Risk of Complications
Because oral surgeons specialize in surgery, they are better equipped to prevent and manage complications. While dental implants have a high success rate, issues like nerve damage, sinus perforation, or implant failure can occur if the procedure is not performed correctly.
An experienced oral surgeon knows how to avoid these problems through careful planning and precise execution. If a complication does arise, they have the training and tools to address it immediately. This level of expertise is one reason your general dentist refers you to a specialist for dental implants Berwyn patients can rely on.
Collaborative Care Between Specialists
At Cameo Dental Specialists, we believe in a team approach. When your general dentist refers you to us, they remain part of your care team. After the oral surgeon places the implant and it has healed, your dentist will often be the one to place the final crown or restoration.
This collaboration ensures continuity of care and allows each provider to focus on their area of expertise. You get the benefit of surgical precision from the oral surgeon and the restorative skill of your general dentist. It’s truly the best of both worlds.
Access to Advanced Technology
Oral surgery practices like ours invest in cutting-edge technology that general dental offices may not have. In addition to 3D imaging, we use digital treatment planning software, surgical guides, and advanced sedation techniques to make your experience as comfortable and successful as possible. These tools allow us to plan every detail of your implant surgery before you even sit in the chair. The result is greater accuracy, shorter procedure times, and better long-term outcomes.
Sedation and Comfort Options
Another reason dentists refer patients to oral surgeons for dental implants is the availability of sedation options. While general dentists can provide local anesthesia, oral surgeons are trained to administer IV sedation and other deeper levels of sedation for patients who are anxious or undergoing complex procedures.
At our Berwyn location, we prioritize patient comfort and offer a range of sedation options to fit your needs. Our team will discuss your preferences and medical history to determine the safest and most comfortable approach.
Trust the Experts at Cameo Dental Specialists
If you’ve been referred to an oral surgeon for dental implants, rest assured that you’re in skilled hands. At Cameo Dental Specialists in Berwyn, our oral surgeons bring years of training, state-of-the-art technology, and a patient-first approach to every case.
We’re proud to work alongside general dentists throughout the Chicago area to provide seamless, high-quality implant care. Contact our Berwyn office today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward restoring your smile with confidence.