From soft tissue augmentation to multi implant placement, there are so many procedures that you probably feel the need to master. But before you begin, it’s important to know which techniques and procedures can best help you offer more services to your patients. Below, we’ll discuss the top implantology procedures and what you need to begin your dental learning journey.
Implantology is the dental discipline of replacing missing or damaged teeth with artificial implants. These meaningful procedures can help your patients recover their full mouth functions, such as speaking and chewing food. Along with having advanced hand skills, there are several techniques and steps you’ll need to learn for reliable outcomes.
Soft tissue augmentation is the process of using connective tissue grafts to thicken the gingiva around the implant for proper function and longevity. Techniques such as free gingival grafts (FGG) can be used reliably with proper training.
If not done correctly, a tooth extraction poses direct risks to the patient. These risks may include:
However, poorly done extractions aren’t just risky for your patients. Dentists run the risk of:
All risks considered, learning to perform atraumatic extractions — extractions that don’t damage surrounding tissue — is crucial for a successful dental career in implant dentistry.
In many cases, bone grafting is a necessary step before an implant may be placed. A bone graft replaces missing bone in order to provide a stable foundation for the implant. Advanced surgical techniques and innovation can help avoid long-term complications.
A sinus lift is the surgical technique of raising the sinus floor and placing bone in the cavity in preparation for an implant. This is sometimes needed when there is insufficient bone in the posterior maxilla to place implants due to periodontal disease or tooth loss. Without it, an implant in this area is likely to fail over time. Dense, compacted bone tissue is possible with the skilled use of the Densah Burs tool. Based on the process of osseodensification, this tool does not excavate bone, resulting in a higher-quality sinus lift that is stable enough for placing implants.
Placing multiple implants can be taxing for you as a dentist and for your patient. Success starts when you can map out a comprehensive treatment plan designed to reduce chair time. You can learn to methodically place multiple implants at the same time and make a provisional bridge to protect the remaining teeth until the treatment plan is complete.
Access to a mentor dentist who has real-world experience and expertise in implantology is priceless. They can help with constructive feedback, walk you through tricky techniques, and be there to support you on your learning journey.
Reading from textbooks can only get you so far. Learning with hands-on simulation technology is no-risk and all reward. You can practice implant placement techniques as many times as you need to gain confidence.
The ability to practice techniques from your dental office — and using your own equipment — can help you improve your hand skills that much faster. You’ll also limit the time away from your patients if you can schedule your coaching and learning around your appointments.
Mastering implantology requires work. But if you’re willing to put in the time and energy to expand your horizons, then it’s totally possible. The Modern Implantology Virtual Dental Residency is an immersive program designed to fast track your career using hands-on learning and support from world-class instructors.
To find out about the Modern Implantology Virtual Dental Residency, download the program outline.