An implantologist is a dental professional who specializes in the surgical placement and restoration of dental implants to replace missing teeth.
How do I become an Implantologist?
To become an implantologist, you typically need to complete a 2-3 year postgraduate dental implantology program and obtain board certification in oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, or prosthodontics.
General dentists can pick up implant skills through continuing education courses, though specialists usually have more advanced training. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) offers credentials like Associate Fellow or Fellow to validate expertise. Just confirm whether your local dental board recognizes these qualifications—requirements differ by country and even region.
What is the meaning of Implantologist?
An implantologist is a dental specialist who focuses on the permanent surgical placement of artificial tooth roots (implants) into the jawbone, followed by the attachment of prosthetic teeth.
This field blends surgical skill with prosthetic artistry to restore both function and appearance for people missing teeth. The title highlights expertise across the entire implant journey—from surgery to final restoration.
What does a periodontist do?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease, and is trained to surgically place dental implants.
They also tackle gingivitis, perform gum grafts, and manage oral inflammation. Most periodontists complete an extra 2-3 years of training after dental school, focusing on implantology and periodontal surgery.
Is implantology a specialty?
No, implant dentistry is not a formally recognized specialty by the American Dental Association (ADA) as of 2026.
That said, dentists can still build deep expertise through continuing education, residencies, or certifications from groups like the AAID or ICOI. In practice, most implant placement lands in the hands of specialists such as oral surgeons or periodontists.
What does an Implantologist do?
An implantologist performs the surgical placement of titanium or ceramic implants into the jawbone and oversees the restoration process, including crowns, bridges, or dentures.
They evaluate bone density, plan implant positioning, and make sure the final prosthesis fits perfectly. Some also handle bone grafting to create a solid foundation for implants.
What is root canal of teeth?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth, cleans the canals, and seals them to prevent further infection.
This treatment is usually done by a general dentist or endodontist under local anesthesia. A root canal saves a badly decayed or infected tooth from extraction by keeping its structure intact.
Can any dentist do implants?
Most general dentists are trained to perform basic dental implant placement, but specialists like oral surgeons or periodontists have advanced training for complex cases.
General dentists may refer patients to specialists for full-mouth reconstructions or cases needing bone grafting. Always check a dentist’s implant experience and success rates before committing.
Do orthodontists do implants?
Yes, orthodontists may place temporary anchorage devices (TADs), which are small implants used to assist with tooth movement during braces treatment.
These mini-implants act as stable anchors for orthodontic forces, sharpening treatment precision. Orthodontists don’t usually place permanent implants for tooth replacement.
Which profession does dental implants?
Oral surgeons and periodontists are the most common professionals who place dental implants, with prosthodontists and some general dentists also performing the procedure.
Oral surgeons often manage complex cases like bone grafting or full-arch restorations, while periodontists focus on implants within the context of gum health. Prosthodontists step in for the restorative phase—think crowns and bridges.
What are the 4 stages of periodontal disease?
The four stages of periodontal disease are gingivitis, slight periodontal disease, moderate periodontal disease, and advanced periodontal disease.
Gingivitis is reversible with the right care, while slight and moderate stages need professional treatment to keep them from getting worse. Advanced periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss if left unchecked. Regular cleanings and good oral hygiene go a long way in prevention.
Can teeth bone regrow?
Yes, bone around teeth can regrow through regenerative procedures like bone grafting or guided tissue regeneration.
These methods use bone grafts—from the patient, a donor, or synthetic sources—to jumpstart new bone growth. Regeneration is especially important for supporting dental implants in patients with bone loss.
Can periodontitis be cured?
Periodontitis cannot be cured, but it can be managed and controlled through professional treatment and consistent oral hygiene.
While the disease isn’t reversible, early action and maintenance can stop further damage. Regular dental visits, deep cleanings, and lifestyle tweaks (like quitting smoking) are crucial for keeping periodontitis in check.
Is an Implantologist an oral surgeon?
Not always—while many implantologists are oral surgeons, others may be periodontists, prosthodontists, or general dentists with advanced implant training.
Oral surgeons usually handle the trickiest surgical cases, while other pros focus on implant placement and restoration. Always ask about a practitioner’s specific implant experience before choosing one.
What is an implant specialist called?
The most common implant specialists are periodontists, oral surgeons, and prosthodontists, depending on their focus area.
Periodontists zero in on gum health and implant placement, oral surgeons take on the surgical heavy lifting, and prosthodontists handle the restorative work like crowns or dentures. Some general dentists also sharpen their implant skills through extra training.
What is the most a dentist can make?
As of 2026, the highest-paid dentists earn over $208,000 annually, with oral surgeons and specialists typically earning more than general dentists.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for dentists was $167,160 in 2023; top earners in oral surgery or cosmetic dentistry can clear over $300,000. Pay varies widely by location, experience, and whether you’re in private practice or a corporate setting.
