Who Is Best Qualified To Do Dental Implants?

Reviewed by Dr. Benjamin Foley, DDS

Reading time: five minutes.

Performing a dental implant procedure requires a high level of skill and expertise. Not every dental professional is suited to perform this complex surgery effectively.In this blog, we will consider the qualifications and experience needed for successful implant placement and provide guidance on selecting a qualified implant specialist to ensure a positive outcome and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

Table of Contents

• Additional Education and Training
• Selecting the Right Dental Implant Specialist
• Periodontists vs Oral Surgeons for Implants
• What Sets Oral Surgeons Apart
• Foley & Le: Meet Our Doctors
  • Benjamin Foley, DDS
  • Thao Le, DDS, MD
• Patient Reviews
• The Best Dental Implants in Boulder, CO

Additional Education and Training

Dental implants are not just about the appearance of your teeth; they are important for restoring function and improving oral health. A poorly placed implant can lead to complications such as bone loss, implant failure, or infection.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are well-qualified due to their extensive training in complex surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and face. Their education typically includes:

• Undergraduate Education
• Dental School
• Hospital-based Residency

This comprehensive training includes dental bone grafting, soft tissue grafting and the management of bone structures, equipping them with the skills needed for precise implant placement. Their in-depth knowledge of oral health issues, such as gum disease and bone loss, is important for the long-term success of your dental implants.

Selecting the Right Dental Implant Specialist

When choosing a dental implant specialist, consider the following factors:

• Qualifications: Look for professionals with specialized training and certification in implant dentistry. Oral surgeons and periodontists are both excellent choices.
• Experience: Inquire about the specialist’s experience with dental implants, including the number of procedures they have performed and their success rates.
• Technology: Ensure that the practice uses advanced technology, such as 3D imaging and guided implant surgery, for more accurate and predictable results.
• Reviews: Check online reviews and patient testimonials to gain insights into other patients’ experiences.
• Consultation: Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and expectations. This meeting will help you assess the specialist’s communication style and approach.

Periodontists vs Oral Surgeons for Implants

Both periodontists and oral surgeons are highly skilled and qualified for dental implant surgery, though their expertise varies slightly.

• Periodontists are experts in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. They have advanced knowledge of the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and jawbone.
• Oral Surgeons specialize in a broad range of surgical procedures, including dental implants, bone grafting, soft tissue grafting, sinus lifts, and wisdom tooth extractions. They are particularly adept at handling complex cases and challenging situations that may be difficult for other dental professionals.

What Sets Oral Surgeons Apart

Oral surgeons are distinguished by several factors:

• Comprehensive knowledge of facial anatomy: Their deep understanding of facial and jaw structures is crucial for precise implant placement.
• Expertise in complex cases: They frequently manage challenging cases, such as significant bone loss or complex medical histories.
• Broad surgical skills: Their extensive training in various surgical techniques allows them to adapt to individual patient needs.
• Sedation options: Oral surgeons offer a range of sedation methods, including general anesthesia, to ensure patient comfort during surgery.

Foley & Le: Meet Our Doctors

Benjamin Foley, DDS

Dr. Foley completed his Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and a Fellow of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

He is specialized in jaw surgery, wisdom tooth removal, dental implants, and bone grafting, with additional expertise in CT-Guided Virtual Surgical Planning. Dr. Foley has been recognized as one of Boulder’s top dentists by 5280 magazine every year since 2016.

Thao Le, DDS, MD

Dr. Thao earned her B.S. from the University of Georgia in 2004, followed by her D.D.S. from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 2008. She completed her M.D. at Emory University in 2011 and received her certification in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery from Emory University in 2014.

Dr. Thao is an active Diplomate of the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and specializes in dentoalveolar surgery, trauma surgery, and facial reconstruction, with expertise in titanium implants, wisdom teeth extraction, and bone grafting.

Patient Reviews

“I recently had my crown seated, the final step in the process of having an implant installed. Dr. Foley did the extraction, bone graft, & implant. My experience at his office has exceeded my expectations. And has been an eye opening journey.”

“Dr. Le is extremely professional and caring. She helped me address a very old and failed crown with a new implant, performing the extraction and new implant on the same day. Post surgery care was very timely and appreciated.”

“Dr. D. Foley has done all my implants and I have about 13.  If I ever needed a new implant, I would only consider him or his team!”

The Best Dental Implants in Boulder, CO

If you need dental implants, consult with a qualified specialist who can guide you through the process. At Foley & Le Oral Surgery, we offer exceptional care and expertise in dental implants, backed by years of experience.

If you are searching for ‘dental implants in Boulder, CO’ or an ‘oral surgeon near me’ we can help! Call (303) 444-2255 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.