Implant Dentist vs General Dentist: Who Should You Consult?

If you have missing teeth or are planning to get dentures, you might be wondering who to consult - an implant dentist or a general dentist? While both have a dental degree, the two are different in their specialties, expertise, and training. The right choice depends on your individual needs.

When to consult an implant dentist

Implant dentists specialize in providing dental implants, which are an effective solution for replacing missing teeth. Here are some scenarios where you should consult an implant dentist:

Missing teeth

If you have missing teeth, dental implants can be an excellent solution. They can evaluate your teeth and provide a customized treatment plan to replace your missing teeth with implants.

Bone loss

If you have experienced bone loss in your jaw, they can provide bone grafts to help rebuild your jaw bone. This can provide a more stable foundation for dental implants.

Denture discomfort

If you wear dentures, implant specialists can help alleviate any discomfort or fit issues. Implant-supported dentures can provide a more secure fit and improve your quality of life.

Aesthetic concerns

If you are unhappy with your smile, implant specialists can provide solutions such as implant-supported crowns, bridges, or veneers. These can improve the appearance and functionality of your teeth.

Overall, if you have missing teeth, bone loss, denture discomfort, or aesthetic concerns, an implant dentist can provide specialized solutions to meet your needs.

When to consult a general dentist

A general dentist is your go-to dental professional for routine checkups, cleanings, and general oral health issues. You should consult a general dentist if you have the following:

Tooth pain or sensitivity

If you experience tooth pain or sensitivity, your general dentist will diagnose and treat the issue. Depending on the severity of the issue, they may recommend fillings, crowns, or root canals.

Gum disease

Gum disease is a common dental issue that can cause swollen, bleeding gums and bad breath. Your general dentist can diagnose and treat gum disease before it leads to more severe complications.

Cavity

If you have a cavity, your general dentist can fill it with a tooth-colored material, ensuring that your tooth remains strong and functional.

Broken or missing teeth

General dentists can repair and restore broken or missing teeth with dental crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Dental emergencies

In case of dental emergencies like a broken tooth or severe toothache, your general dentist is the one to call.

In short, a general dentist is the best professional to consult if you have any routine dental concerns or need regular preventive care. They are trained to identify and treat a variety of dental issues and will help you maintain optimal oral health.

The risks of not consulting a dentist

When it comes to maintaining oral health, consulting a dentist regularly is essential. Ignoring dental problems can lead to serious issues and complications, and this is especially true when it comes to missing teeth. If you have missing teeth and do not seek professional advice and treatment, you could be putting yourself at risk for a host of problems, including:

• Difficulty eating
• Gum disease
• Jawbone loss
• Poor oral health

By consulting a qualified dentist, you can get the necessary treatment and advice to prevent these risks and ensure optimal oral health. Both implant and general dentists offer a range of services that can help you restore missing teeth, and the right choice for you will depend on your unique needs and circumstances.