Patient Information

Yes! Most patients are a candidate for dental implants. Even if you've been without teeth for decades, new modern techniques are quickly making almost all patients candidates. Even if you've been told by a dentist before that you are not a candidate or "do not have enough bone" I highly encourage you to visit for a free consultation. 

Most dentists do not take the extensive advanced courses nor are board certified in dental implantology, and your previous doctor may have not known the latest techniques that do in fact make you a candidate.

I truly believe there are very few investments as valuable as investing in your smile. It’s about so much more than just teeth, it’s confidence, self-esteem, and the freedom to fully engage in your personal, social, and professional life.

With advances in technology, dental implant treatment has become more efficient and more affordable than ever. In addition, we offer modern dental-specific financing options that allow many patients to fit treatment into their budget. For most people, there is a solution that makes this care achievable. When you come in for a consult, we'll review your case and offer you fair and transparent financial estimates so you can make the best decision for your care.

Surprisingly to many patients, dental implant surgery is typically fairly comfortable compared to other procedures. Most people experience minimal pain and swelling, often less than they expected. In fact, many patients manage their recovery with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen and do not require stronger pain medication. We also use modern techniques designed to be as gentle and precise as possible, which helps keep discomfort to a minimum.

This is one of the most exciting parts of dental implant treatment: you’re not without teeth at all. In most cases, you receive teeth the very same day as your surgery.

While these teeth are temporary and serve as your trial smile, they allow you to smile confidently, speak clearly, and enjoy soft foods right away. You get to walk out with a brand-new smile immediately, while we take the time to design your final, long-term teeth to be just right.

While many offices advertise dental implant treatment, the most important factor isn’t the building or the technology, it’s the surgeon. This procedure is highly technique-sensitive, and outcomes depend heavily on the experience, training, and judgment of the doctor performing it.

When choosing a dental surgeon, look for advanced surgical training, board certification, and a practice that focuses exclusively on implant dentistry. Surgeons who perform this treatment every day develop a level of precision, efficiency, and foresight that simply can’t be replicated part-time.

NOTE: Be cautious of extremely low advertised prices. These offers are often designed to get patients in the door and may involve bait-and-switch pricing, high provider turnover, or clinicians who are still early in their learning curve. This is not a procedure where you want to be someone’s training case! Always ask your dentist what implantology credentials they have and how often they perform a procedure.

Choosing an experienced, dedicated implant surgeon isn’t just about better results, it’s about safety, predictability, and long-term success. Choose a doctor who has put in the time and training to be a knowledgable, careful provider.

When choosing a dentist for implant surgery, it’s important to look beyond marketing and understand a provider’s training and credentials. Two respected designations in implant dentistry are DABOI and FAAID, which indicate advanced education, experience, and ongoing evaluation in implant care.

DABOI stands for Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology. Dentists who earn this credential complete extensive training, submit documented implant cases, and pass rigorous written and oral examinations focused specifically on implant surgery and treatment planning. It reflects a high level of expertise and a commitment to predictable, evidence-based care.

FAAID stands for Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. This designation requires advanced coursework, hands-on surgical experience, and peer review. Dentists must demonstrate proficiency across a wide range of implant procedures and maintain continued education to stay current as techniques and technology evolve.

While no credential can guarantee a specific outcome, certifications like DABOI and FAAID help patients identify dentists who have invested significant time and effort into mastering implant dentistry and maintaining high clinical standards.

Some patients choose to travel to Santa Barbara for implant care, and that can be a great option as long as you understand the commitment involved. Full-arch implant treatment requires multiple visits, follow-up appointments, and time dedicated to healing, which may mean several trips and extended travel planning.

For many patients, it’s also worth exploring implant providers closer to home, especially dentists who are properly credentialed and experienced in implant dentistry. I’m part of Shared Practices Group (SPG), a nationwide network focused on connecting patients with highly trained implant doctors across the country. If traveling isn’t the right fit for you, SPG can help you find an expert provider in your area.

Find an SPG Location Near You