What should an implant evaluation include?
The evaluation may include a medical and dental history, examination of the teeth and gums, assessment of the bite and available space, and imaging when clinically indicated. The clinician should explain whether an implant is appropriate and compare alternatives such as preserving the tooth, a bridge, a removable prosthesis, or no treatment.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that overall health and healing ability are important considerations. Smoking, uncontrolled medical conditions, active gum disease, some medications, and hygiene limitations may affect candidacy or risk.
Which questions should I ask the provider?
| Topic | What to ask | What a clear answer includes |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnosis | What is the diagnosis, and what alternatives were considered? | The condition being treated and why an implant was chosen over preserving the tooth, a bridge, a removable prosthesis, or no treatment |
| Roles | Who will place the implant, restore it, and provide maintenance? | A named clinician for each stage |
| Training | What relevant education and experience does each clinician have? | Specific education and experience, not a label such as "specialist" |
| Preparation | Is grafting or another preparatory procedure anticipated? | Whether it is likely, why, and whether it is included in the estimate |
| Imaging | What imaging is needed and why? | How the imaging changes the plan; three-dimensional imaging is commonly used to plan placement |
| Components | What implant and restoration components are planned? | The implant system and restoration type |
| Risks | What are the material risks in my case? | Individual risks, not only general statistics |
| Estimate | What is included in the written estimate, and what could add cost? | Line items, exclusions, and possible additions |
| Maintenance | What follow-up and long-term maintenance are required? | Visit schedule and home-care expectations |
| Referral | When would referral to a recognized dental specialist be appropriate? | A clear threshold and to whom |
What risks should be discussed?
Possible complications include infection, delayed healing, injury to nearby teeth or tissues, nerve or sinus problems, loosening, and implant failure. The crown or prosthesis can also chip, loosen, wear, or require replacement. Individual risk depends on anatomy, health, habits, hygiene, treatment design, and follow-up.
Is a high success percentage a guarantee?
No. Published outcomes describe groups of patients under particular study conditions. They do not guarantee an individual's result, and percentages should not replace a discussion of personal risks, alternatives, and uncertainty.
What should Yorba Linda patients receive in writing?
Request the diagnosis, proposed sequence, clinician roles, alternatives, risks, expected healing stages, included components, maintenance plan, and financial estimate.
Dr. Nabeel Cajee leads implant surgery for Advanced Dentistry & Orthodontics and teaches continuing-education courses to other dentists; three-dimensional imaging is used to plan implant placement. Implant care is offered at all three offices, and Yorba Linda patients may request an evaluation through the Brea office. Review the dental implant treatment page and the Southern California dental implant guide, or request an evaluation at the Brea office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every dentist who places implants a dental specialist?
No. Implant dentistry is not a separately recognized ADA specialty. Ask about relevant training, experience, licensure, and whether referral is appropriate.
Does every implant case require bone grafting?
No. The need depends on anatomy, the site, the restoration plan, and other clinical factors.
Can an implant last a lifetime?
No lifetime result can be guaranteed. The implant and restoration can experience biological or mechanical complications and require ongoing care.
Which dental specialties does the ADA recognize?
The ADA's National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards maintains the list of recognized specialties. Implant dentistry is not on it, although recognized specialists such as periodontists, prosthodontists, and oral and maxillofacial surgeons may place or restore implants.
Sources
These sources support general patient education. Individual diagnosis, treatment options, timing, and risks require an examination by a qualified dental professional.
- Dental Implants: What You Should KnowU.S. Food and Drug Administration. Accessed 2026-08-24.
- Recognized Dental SpecialtiesAmerican Dental Association, National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards. Accessed 2026-08-24.
- Marketing and AdvertisingAmerican Dental Association. Accessed 2026-08-24.
- Dental Implant ProceduresAmerican Academy of Periodontology. Accessed 2026-08-24.