Dos and don'ts for implant treatment

The implant opportunity

Think about it from this perspective: If a practice has 1,500 to 2,000 patients, there are probably hundreds who could ultimately benefit from implant treatment. But if patients are not diagnosed as potential implant candidates, then they can't take advantage of this effective treatment for full and partial edentulism.

Perform an annual implant exam. All edentulous patients and any patients who may be in danger of losing one or more teeth should be educated about the benefits of implant treatment. An annual implant exam creates greater patient awareness about this essential service.

Don't wait for patients to ask about implants. Patients look to their dentist for guidance about their oral health. If edentulous patients don't hear about implant treatment from you and your team, they will think either it's not worth doing or that implant services aren't offered at your practice. As the oral healthcare authority, dentists should educate patients about all available treatment options.