If you’ve asked “who can do dental implants,” you’re not alone. Dental implants are a durable way to replace missing teeth, but placing them safely takes training and experience. This article explains which types of dental professionals place implants, what credentials and technologies to look for, when you should see a specialist, and the questions to ask before you book care. Choosing the right provider affects comfort, the success of your implant, and how long your new tooth will last.
Who Can Do Dental Implants? Types of providers
Periodontists
Periodontists are gum and bone specialists. Their training focuses on gum disease, bone health, and implant surgery. They handle implant placement when bone grafting or soft-tissue work is needed, and they’re a top choice if you have periodontal disease or thin gums.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons
Oral surgeons train in complex mouth and jaw surgery. They often work in hospital settings and manage difficult cases like severe bone loss, multiple extractions, or medical issues that need hospital privileges. They commonly perform bone grafts and sinus lifts before placing implants.
Prosthodontists
Prosthodontists specialize in restoring teeth. They plan and design implant crowns, bridges, and full-arch restorations. If your case focuses on the final tooth shape, bite, or full-mouth reconstruction, a prosthodontist’s expertise can improve the long-term look and function.
General Dentists with Implant Training
Many general dentists have advanced training to place implants for routine single-tooth cases. A well-trained general dentist can be a good choice for straightforward implants. However, if your case needs grafting, sinus lifts, or full-arch work, you may be referred to a specialist.
Key credentials and experience to look for
Board certification and specialty training
Look for formal specialty training, residencies, or board certification. These credentials show additional education beyond dental school and signal a higher level of expertise in implant surgery and periodontal care.
Case experience and before/after examples
Ask to see documented cases and before/after photos. Experience with many implant cases, including managing complications and long-term follow-up, is a strong sign of expertise.
Use of modern technology
CBCT imaging, guided implant placement, and digital planning make implant surgery safer and more predictable. Providers who use these tools can better assess bone, plan implant position, and reduce surgical risks.
When you should see a specialist instead of a general dentist
See a specialist if you have severe bone loss, need bone grafting or a sinus lift, want All-on-4 or full-arch restoration, have complex medical issues, or need advanced cosmetic results. Specialists handle higher-risk and more complex surgical needs.
Questions to ask any provider about implants
How many implants have you placed? What are your success rates? Do you perform grafting and sinus lifts here? What sedation options are available? What is the expected timeline and cost? What follow-up care or warranties do you offer?
Signs of a safe, patient-focused implant practice
Look for clear treatment plans, informed consent, sedation choices, detailed post-op care, and transparent financing or insurance support. A practice that explains risks and alternatives shows patient-focused care.
About NOVA Perio Specialists — implant expertise and services
If you’re wondering who can do dental implants in Sterling, Leesburg, or Aldie, NOVA Perio Specialists offers four experienced periodontists who provide implants, All-on-4, bone grafting, sinus lifts, gum surgery, and sedation. They emphasize evidence-based care, CBCT imaging, and patient comfort across their offices.
How to get started
Schedule a consultation and bring any dental records or imaging. Expect a personalized plan that covers timeline, costs, financing, and follow-up care. Contact NOVA Perio Specialists to book an implant evaluation and learn which provider and treatment plan fit your needs.
