But the earlier designs had many limitations that have been eliminated with the latest designs and techniques. Over the past 20 years, implants have demonstrated long-term success, Rivers said. This success can be attributed to the use of biologically sound surgical and restorative techniques used by highly skilled and appropriately trained dentists. Historically, implant procedures have been performed by dental specialists such as periodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and prosthodontists. The procedures may also be performed by general dentists who have received additional training.
Many general dentists prefer to have the periodontist or oral surgeon place the implant.
It should be noted that any licensed dentist who obtains adequate training can place and restore implants. Formal implant training in dental schools has been limited primarily to the graduate or specialty programs. The requirement for undergraduate student implant education was limited and did not require clinical experience. Those educational requirements are rapidly changing, and all dental schools must eventually respond to these new educational demands. The College of Dental Medicine s 1998 retreat explored the need for a clinical, hands-on education program for the restoration of dental implants at the undergraduate level.