If you’re searching for what type of doctor does dental implants, this guide explains the specialists who place and restore implants and how to pick the right team. The goal is simple: help you understand which doctors handle the surgical part, which handle the prosthetic part, and when a single dentist can do both. Read on to learn who commonly places implants, when to see a specialist, the tech that improves outcomes, questions to ask, and next steps for a consult near Wellington, CO.
Who commonly places dental implants
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are surgical specialists trained to manage the hard and soft tissues of the face and mouth. They handle complex bone work, extractions, and cases with medical risk. If you need bone grafts, sinus lifts, or sedation, a surgeon often places the implant fixture.
Periodontists
Periodontists focus on gums and supporting bone. They are experts in bone grafting and soft-tissue grafts, which helps implants succeed long-term. Periodontists commonly place implants when the surrounding gum or bone needs special care.
Prosthodontists
Prosthodontists specialize in rebuilding teeth with crowns, bridges, and full-arch prostheses. They usually design and place the final implant restorations. For complex aesthetic or full-mouth cases, a prosthodontist’s skill ensures the replacement teeth look and work well.
General dentists and restorative dentists
Many general dentists place implants for routine single-tooth cases and coordinate with specialists when needed. A general dentist can manage both surgery and restoration if they have implant training and the right technology.
Answer: what type of doctor does dental implants — surgery vs restoration
Implant care often uses a team approach: one doctor surgically places the titanium implant post, and another restores it with a crown, bridge, or denture. That separation can improve outcomes when specialists collaborate. In some offices, one provider handles both surgery and restoration for simpler cases. If you’re asking what type of doctor does dental implants in Wellington, CO, expect either a team or an experienced general dentist to guide your care.
When to see a specialist instead of a general dentist
Complex medical or surgical needs
See a specialist when you have severe bone loss, need sinus lifts, have impacted teeth, or have medical conditions that raise surgical risk.
Advanced restorative cases
For full-arch restorations, multiple implants, or high cosmetic demands, a prosthodontist or a coordinated team gives better results.
Key questions to ask any implant doctor
– How many implants do you place per year?
– What training or certifications do you have?
– Do you handle both surgery and restoration?
– Can I see before/after photos and patient testimonials?
– What technologies do you use for planning and restorations?
– What are financing and follow-up options?
Technology that improves implant outcomes
Digital tools make implant care safer and faster. 3D imaging helps precise planning. CAD/CAM and CEREC allow accurate, same-day restorations. 3D printing and photogrammetry yield exact models and scans for better-fitting prosthetics.
About Wellington Family Dentistry & Implant Center and Dr. David J. Pringle
Wellington Family Dentistry & Implant Center offers a modern, technology-forward implant workflow in Wellington, CO. Dr. David J. Pringle combines implant-focused training and a neuroscience background to deliver full-arch solutions and same-day CEREC restorations. The practice uses CAD/CAM, 3D printing, and photogrammetry and offers flexible financing like Cherry Payment Plans.
How to choose the right implant team and next steps
Match your case to the specialist: surgeons for complex surgery, periodontists for gum and bone work, prosthodontists for advanced restorations. Schedule a consult to review your imaging and treatment plan. Expect a review of your health history, 3D scans, and a clear plan with costs and timelines. If you want to learn what type of doctor does dental implants in Wellington, CO for your situation, contact the office for a personalized consult.
