Originally Posted by AUQuilter
My 2 Cents - A general dentist may have gone to a weekend or a series of weekends seminar and be able to do implants. The following are dental specialists: A Periodontist does an additional three years of residency beyond dental school to do implants and gum surgeries. A Prosthodontist also does implants and dentures- again three additional years of residency beyond dental school. And find out if the specialists are BOARD CERTIFIED-rigorous testing both in the dental clinic and knowledge. Dental care is important and who you choose is also important. Both of the following websites can be searched for board certified specialist in your area.
http://www.abperio.org/ and
http://www.prosthodontics.org/abp/
I've had 3 implants done, the last one on a top front tooth. I would only go to an Oral & Maxiofacial dentist for this kind of work due to the fact that it is a specialty. I am extremely happy with my implants and would certainly choose this option again over a bridge. Good luck with whatever you decide!