Jeffrey J. Stein, DDS, Inc.

Jeffrey Stein, D.D.S.

• Omicron Kappa Upsilon (Dental Honor Fraternity)
• Member of International Congress of Implantology
• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Top 10 Critical Things You Should Know
Before You Select a Implant Dentist

Implants are an investment in the future of your smile. And, like any investment, you'll want to do a little research before making a final decision on who places and restores them for you. These guidelines can help you choose the practitioner who's right for you.

1. Check the doctor's credentials.

   No matter who you choose make sure the doctor is licensed through the state dental board.

2. Investigate the doctor's training.

   The best implant dentists didn't just go to dental school; they also completed extensive post-graduate training programs that focus specifically on issues of implant placement and restoration. In addition, the best dentists regularly attend continuing education classes to stay up-to-date on new procedures and materials.

3. Start with a consultation.

   Going in for a consultation is a great way to learn more about a doctor and practice. Consultations are generally inexpensive, and are sometimes even offered for free. Talk to the dentist before you commit to anything. Remember, it's your job to make an educated decision.

4. Communication is key.

   It's essential that you be able to talk to your dentist - and that your dentist will listen to you! There's a lot of dialogue that needs to go into an individual long-term treatment plan. If you feel bullied, pressured, or rushed, then that's probably not the right dentist for you.

5. Know the basics of implants.

   Gone are the days when there was only one way to approach the replacement of missing teeth. Some implants can placed the same day a tooth is lost. Some implants can restore a mouthful of missing teeth. What are your needs and how will your implant dentist meet them?

6. Does your implant dentist place and restore implants?

   Some dentists will only place or only restore implants; this is called the team approach and you will probably have to visit multiple offices for multiple visits. Other dentists place and restore implants and this will take place in one office. Their are advantages and disadvantages to both approaches. Ask your implant dentist how he will handle your case.

7. Don't pay too much - or too little.

   Some dentists charge more by marketing themselves as high-end braces dentists offering Hollywood smile makeovers. Other dentists try to make up for poor materials and shoddy work by offering low prices. Beware the extremes.

8. An honest dentist sets realistic expectations.

   Watch out for doctors who promise more than they can deliver. You want a dentist who will tell you what can and cannot be done for your smile. You need to know how long the process will take, what you'll have to do, and any complications that could occur.

9. Nothing compares to experience.

   Much like other people, dentists get better at things the more they do them. Ideally, your dentist will have lots of experience with orthodontics in general and with cases like yours specifically.

10. Technology is cool, but it's not the only thing.

    A dentist with high-tech modern equipment and computers is more likely to be up-to-date on modern techniques. At the same time, however, don't let yourself be dazzled by a dentist's fancy tools; what really matters is if the dentist knows how to use them properly.