Why Every General Dentist Should Learn to Place Dental Implants
Dental implants have become the cornerstone of modern restorative dentistry, offering patients a functional, long-term solution for missing teeth. With approximately 120 million Americans missing at least one tooth and 36 million completely edentulous (missing all teeth in one or both arches), the demand for restorative solutions like implants is at an all-time high. These numbers are expected to grow as aging populations and chronic conditions contribute to tooth loss, emphasizing the critical role of dental implants in improving patient care.
As a general dentist, incorporating implantology into your practice can dramatically expand the scope of your care, enhance professional satisfaction, and significantly impact your practice's growth. The ability to place implants is no longer a niche reserved for specialists; it is an essential skill for any dentist committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. At the Burke Implant Academy, our mission is to empower general dentists with the skills and confidence to seamlessly integrate implantology into their practice. Here’s why you should take this step and how to select cases that ensure predictable outcomes.
The Evolution of Implant Dentistry: Why It’s Time to Act
The field of implant dentistry has advanced rapidly, with innovations in technology, materials, and techniques making implant placement more accessible than ever before. Today, tools such as CBCT imaging, guided surgery systems, and comprehensive training programs allow general dentists to place implants with precision and predictability.
Simultaneously, patient demand for implants is skyrocketing. Implants are no longer considered a luxury treatment; they are the gold standard for single-tooth replacements, fixed full-arch restorations, and everything in between. By not offering implants, you may be missing a significant opportunity to serve your patients while growing your practice.
The Benefits of Learning Implant Placement
Elevate Patient Care
Offering implants in-house provides your patients with a seamless, efficient treatment experience. They trust you as their dentist, and keeping their care under one roof eliminates the stress and inconvenience of external referrals.Achieve Professional Growth
Learning to place implants is an investment in your skill set that pays dividends throughout your career. Implantology not only sharpens your surgical and diagnostic skills but also challenges you to master new techniques and stay at the forefront of modern dentistry.Increase Practice Profitability
Implant dentistry is one of the most profitable areas of dentistry. Each implant case generates revenue through associated procedures, such as bone grafting, sinus augmentation, and prosthetic restorations. This added income can fuel investments in advanced technology, staff training, and practice expansion.Retain Patients and Attract New Ones
Patients increasingly seek practices offering comprehensive services. Adding implant placement allows you to meet this demand, retain patients who might otherwise seek treatment elsewhere, and attract new patients by marketing your implant capabilities.
Mastering Case Selection: The Cornerstone of Implant Success
Proper case selection is essential to building confidence and ensuring predictable outcomes. Ideal cases for general dentists include:
Single-tooth replacements in non-aesthetic zones
Adequate bone volume without grafting
Medically healthy patients
Wide interdental spaces
Knowing your limitations is equally important. Refer cases involving anterior aesthetics, extensive bone loss, or medically compromised patients to specialists to ensure optimal outcomes.
Education and Training: Building Confidence in Implantology
Expanding your skills in implantology starts with the right training. At the Burke Implant Academy, we provide a comprehensive education that bridges the gap between theory and practice. Our program emphasizes:
Hands-on surgical training with live surgeries under expert supervision.
Evidence-based techniques for predictable, systematic case planning and implant placement.
Small group instruction for personalized guidance.
Case management support to ensure long-term success.
The Future of Your Practice Starts Today
The need for dental implants will continue to rise, driven by growing patient demand and the increasing prevalence of tooth loss. By mastering implantology, you position yourself at the forefront of modern dentistry, meet the growing needs of your patients, and unlock the full potential of your practice.
If you’re ready to take the next step, the Burke Implant Academy is here to guide you every step of the way. With the right training, support, and case selection, you can seamlessly integrate implant placement into your practice and achieve outstanding results.
For more information, visit www.burkeimplantacademy.com. Don’t wait to elevate your practice—start your journey with implants today.
About the Author
Dr. Darryl Burke
A distinguished dental professional with decades of experience in general and implant dentistry, Dr. Burke is the founder of the Burke Implant Academy in partnership with Neodent. He is dedicated to advancing dental education and high-quality patient care. Dr. Burke is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the California State Dental Association, and the Contra Costa Dental Association. Based in Concord, California, he combines his passion for dentistry with a commitment to innovation and excellence.