Should I Request a Specific Dental Implant Brand?

Gary asks:
I am a patient and have two caps on my lower two front teeth. My dentist has suggested replacing these with dental implants. I've done some research and the process looks a bit daunting. There seem to be a lot of different implant systems out there. Should I request a specific brand of implant and if so why? Are there any differences?

Answered by: Dr. Michael Tischler

Woodstock, NY

Dear Gary,

The process of replacing teeth with dental implants can actually be very simple, predictable, and easy for the patient. I am a big believer in using a Cone Beam CT as part of the treatment planning process since this enables this predictability and simplicity.

There are many implant systems available for a clinician to use today. It is difficult, to say which system is "the best." The most important thing is finding the right clinician and then asking them the right questions.

So the key is to find a dentist you trust, and ask him or her what is the experience they have with the system they are using. Ask them why they use it and what features it has. Ask them their success rate with the system they use. I have used one system for over ten years and my success rate is around 99%. I often convey this to my patients and discuss these facts with them.