Why You Should See a Periodontist—Not Just Any Dentist—for Dental Implants

If you’re thinking about getting dental implants, first of all—great choice. Implants are one of the most effective, long-lasting ways to replace missing teeth. They look natural, feel stable, and they can seriously boost your confidence. But before you move forward, I want to talk about something most patients don’t realize: who places your implant matters just as much as the implant itself.

Today, it seems like every dentist is offering dental implants. But not all implant providers are created equal. As a board-certified periodontist who’s been placing implants for decades, I want to explain why seeing a specialist like me, rather than a general dentist who “also does implants,” can make a huge difference in your comfort, results, and long-term health.

Let’s break it down.

What’s the Difference Between a Periodontist and a General Dentist?

Most people know what a general dentist is—they handle your cleanings, fillings, and routine dental care. And many are excellent at what they do. But dental implants involve surgery, and surgery requires a different level of expertise.

Periodontists like me go through years of additional training after dental school, focusing exclusively on the gums, bone, and supporting structures of the teeth. That includes advanced implant placement techniques, bone grafting, and managing complex cases. General dentists, on the other hand, may take a weekend course or short seminar and start placing implants without the same depth of education.

I spent three years at NYU in a full-time postdoctoral residency dedicated to periodontics and dental implants. Out of over 200 applicants, I was one of only four dentists accepted. That’s the kind of training you just don’t get from a quick course.

Why It Matters for Your Health (and Your Wallet)

Here’s a little secret no one likes to talk about: not all implants succeed. Sometimes they fail. And more often than not, it’s because something was missed—like inadequate bone, untreated gum disease, or poor placement.

As a periodontist, I don’t just place implants—I make sure your mouth is actually ready for one. I evaluate your bone density, the health of your gums, and your overall medical condition. If we need to build up the bone or address an issue before placing the implant, we do that first. It’s all about setting the stage for long-term success.

When implants fail, patients often come to me to fix them. And while I’m always happy to help, I wish they’d come to me first, because fixing an implant gone wrong is more complex (and more expensive) than doing it right the first time.

This Isn’t a One-Size-Fits-All Procedure

Every mouth is different. Every patient is different. Some people have been missing teeth for years and have significant bone loss. Others have health conditions like diabetes or are taking medications that affect healing. These aren’t things you want to ignore.

During my hospital-based residency at Long Island College Hospital, I gained medical training in anesthesia, emergency medicine, and treating patients with complex health histories. That kind of medical background is rare among dentists, and it helps me provide safer, more personalized care.

Whether you need one implant or a full-mouth restoration, we plan every detail carefully, based on your anatomy, your health, and your goals.

I’ve Worn the General Dentist Hat Too

Before I became a periodontist, I actually practiced family dentistry for a few years. I’ve done fillings, cleanings, crowns—you name it. That experience gives me a unique perspective. I understand what your general dentist is looking for in the final result, and I work closely with them to make sure your implant looks and functions beautifully.

We’re a team. You won’t be bouncing between offices with no coordination. I stay in close contact with your regular dentist throughout the process.

The Smile Zone Needs a Specialist’s Touch

If your implant is in the front of your mouth—the part people actually see—precision matters even more. You want it to look natural, symmetrical, and match the rest of your smile.

That’s where my training in cosmetic gum procedures really makes a difference. I know how to shape the gums and position the implant so that it blends seamlessly. Patients often tell me their friends and family can’t even tell which tooth is the implant—and that’s exactly the goal.

My Roots Are Right Here on Long Island

I grew up in North Massapequa and graduated from Plainedge High School. I went to Boston University on an accelerated honors track and finished both college and dental school in just six years (instead of eight). I was fortunate to receive numerous awards for my academic and clinical achievements, but what matters most to me now is using that experience to help people in my community.

When you choose me for your implant care, you’re not just getting someone with advanced credentials—you’re getting someone who truly cares. I treat every patient like family, and I take pride in delivering the kind of care I’d want for myself or my loved ones.

Bottom Line: Choose Experience

I know it can be tempting to go with the closest or cheapest provider. But dental implants are a serious investment in your health, and you deserve a specialist who has the training, experience, and attention to detail to do it right.

So if you’re considering implants, come talk to me. We’ll take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and create a plan that works for you.

Because when it comes to your smile, there’s no substitute for doing things the right way—from the start.