Thinking about getting dental implants? Choosing the right dental implant provider is the most important decision you’ll make in your treatment process. With so many providers claiming to be experts,
how can you tell who’s truly qualified? Not all implant providers or dental specialists are created equal, and making the wrong choice can lead to painful, costly consequences. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the common mistakes to help you find a qualified, skilled dental implant specialist.
5 Common Mistakes Patients Make When Choosing a Dental Implant Provider
1. Not Researching Provider Credentials and Experience
When it comes to placing dental implants, not all dentists are equal. The most qualified providers are dental specialists with advanced training in surgical and restorative procedures specific to implant dentistry.
- Oral and maxillofacial surgeons undergo 4-6 years of specialized surgical training on the complexities of the bone, gums, muscles, and nerves involved in implant placement. Oral surgeons are the only dental specialists trained in bone grafting and sinus lifts for individuals with bone loss. Oral surgeons handle the extractions, when needed, along with the surgical placement of the dental implant.
- Prosthodontists are specialists in replacing and restoring missing or damaged teeth. They have years of training on the diagnosis, design, function, and aesthetics of dental restorations. They craft custom, natural-looking prosthesis that integrate seamlessly with dental implants to replace missing teeth in a variety of forms, such as implant dentures, implant bridges, and full mouth dental implants.
Dental implant treatment is a multi-step process that involves surgical precision, restorative expertise, and careful planning and coordination of care. That’s why having a multidisciplinary team is essential for long-term success.
“At Envision Dental Implant Center, our prosthodontists, oral surgeons, and anesthesia teams work seamlessly together at one location to combine the power and expertise of multiple specialties for a superior patient experience and results,” said Dr. Hunter Dawson, Prosthodontist at Envision Dental Implant Center.
In addition to choosing the right multi-specialty team, it’s important to:
- Research a provider’s education, training, and board certifications. Look for providers with active membership in professional organizations such as the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) and the American College of Prosthodontists (ACP).
- Ask your general dentist or healthcare providers for trusted recommendations.
2. Falling for Misleading Advertising and False Claims
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is—especially when it comes to dental implants. Advertising that promises "Teeth in a Day" or “$399 dental implants” may sound like a dream come true, but choosing a provider based on flashy slogans and bargain deals could jeopardize your health, comfort, and long-term satisfaction.
While it is technically possible to place temporary teeth on the same day as implant surgery in some cases, this approach is not recommended—or even safe—for everyone. Simplifying the complex, multi-step dental implant process can be problematic in a variety of ways:
- Dental Implant Are Not One-Size-Fits-All: Most patients need careful evaluation, imaging, treatment planning, and even site development with bone grafting before implants can be safely placed. Rushing this process can impact the implant’s long-term success.
- Temporary vs. Final Results: “Teeth in a Day” often refers to temporary teeth placed immediately after implant surgery—not the final, custom prosthetics. For the ideal fit and function of your teeth, your final, permanent teeth usually will be fit weeks or months following the healing of the gums and osseointegration of the implant with the surrounding bone tissue.
- Misleading Expectations: Ads often imply that anyone can walk in and leave with a brand-new smile the same day. In reality, this immediate-load approach only works for select candidates with excellent bone density and oral health.
- Risk of Complications: Placing pressure on new implants too soon can increase the risk of failure. A careful, staged approach—especially by an experienced oral surgeon and prosthodontist—provides more predictable outcomes and long-term success.
3. Choosing a Provider Based on Dental Implant Cost Alone
While the cost of dental implants is understandably a significant factor for many patients considering implants, choosing a provider based on price alone could be a costly mistake.
Low-cost dental implants are usually a sign of risky implant practices, like using low-quality implant materials, skipping necessary diagnostic imaging, cutting out critical steps like site preparation with bone grafting, or lacking the specialized training of an oral surgeon or prosthodontist. These shortcuts can lead to complications, implant failure, and even more expensive corrective procedures down the line.
“There are a variety of factors that go into the cost of dental implants and comprehensive treatment”, says Dr. Dawson. "Pricing should be based on your unique needs and factors. When you meet with our specialized team at Envision, we will complete a thorough evaluation of your needs before providing comprehensive treatment options and up-front pricing. We take time to ensure you know the exact value and benefits of the dental implants and treatment you select, along with the specialized care you will receive," continues Dr. Dawson.
Investing in quality care from the start ensures your implants are safe, functional, and set to last.
4. Putting Off Care Because of Dental Anxiety
It’s common for patients to feel anxious about dental surgery, which may discourage them from seeking care or doing thorough research. But delaying treatment can lead to even more complex and costly treatments in the future. Delaying care when you have missing or failing teeth can lead to bone loss and resorption, shifting or damage to adjacent teeth, and worsening oral health.
The good news is that qualified dental implant providers, especially those with specialized training like oral surgeons and prosthodontists, are well-equipped to support anxious patients before, during, and after treatment.
At Envision, we prioritize your comfort by:
- Creating a welcoming, supportive environment
- Offering sedation and anesthesia options to fit your needs and goals
- Taking time to answer your questions and address concerns
“With years of specialized training and experience, we focus not only on the technical side of dental implants but also on building trust and confidence with each patient. We believe that clear communication and expert care help ease dental anxiety, making sure you’re comfortable and empowered throughout your experience,” says Dr. Jackson Blackburn, Prosthodontist at Envision Dental Implant Center.
5. Not Considering the Patient Experience
A great patient experience should play a major role in your decision when choosing a dental implant provider. Beyond credentials and cost, how a provider treats and supports their patients—before, during, and after treatment—speaks volumes about the quality of care you can expect.
Make sure to take time to research the patient and treatment experiences of others, and don’t stop at reading just a few online reviews. Take time to gather well-rounded insight by talking to people you trust. Ask friends, family, or coworkers about their experiences, and seek recommendations from your general dentist or other healthcare professionals. Hearing how others felt about their care, communication, and their final results can give you the confidence you need to move forward with the right provider for your smile.
How to Choose the Best Dental Implant Center
Choosing where to get dental implants isn’t just a clinical decision—it’s a personal one. It’s about feeling heard, cared for, and confident in the hands of a qualified team that truly understands you and your goals. That’s why it’s so important to do a little homework: look into each provider’s credentials and experience, ask for referrals, and meet with specialists until you feel completely at ease.
Look for a dental implant center that brings together a collaborative team—oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and anesthesia specialists working side by side to deliver safe, seamless care. Make sure they listen, communicate clearly, and build a plan around you, not just your teeth.
At Envision Dental Implant Center, we treat every patient like family. Our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way with warmth, expertise, and a focus on your comfort and satisfaction. Let’s start your journey together. Book a consultation today.
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