Implants require a team composed of a surgeon (e.g., oral and maxillofacial surgeon, periodontist) and a restorative dentist (e.g., general dentist, prosthodontist). The surgeon is responsible for placing the implants while the restorative dentist is responsible for the crown, bridge or denture that the implant supports.

Before implants can be placed, the patient will undergo a comprehensive oral examination to determine if he or she is a good candidate for the procedure. The dentist will evaluate the patient’s medical and dental history. X-rays and sometimes a computerized axial tomography scan (CAT scan) will be ordered to evaluate the condition of the jawbone and the location of nerves and sinuses.