The Operation Being fitted with implants is not a minor procedure. Certain drugs and diseases that compromise healing, steroids or uncontrolled diabetes, for instance, can lessen your chances of a good result. Smokers and heavy drinkers may not get good results, either. Moreover, you must have enough bone for the fixtures to hold. Finally, since your gums won't cling to artificial teeth as tightly as to normal teeth, some dentists recommend additional surgery to make your gum line look more natural.
Some dentists operate after taking only a weekend course.
Look for a team that has done at least 50 cases overall and 10 to 15 like yours. Ask to speak with some other patients. Ask any potential surgeon whether the hardware he or she uses has been accepted by the American Dental Association. To gain ADA acceptance, manufacturers must conduct two five-year clinical studies to show the hardware holds up in real use. Most implant systems don't have ADA acceptance.