The idea of having an artificial tooth root implanted into your jaw bone may sound new and a little scary. However, the concept isn’t recent. Ancient cultures experimented with it, and modern dental implants have been in use since the early 1980s. It is currently the best method we have of replacing a missing tooth with one that looks, feels, and functions like the real thing. Implantology is an evolving field. That means technology, materials, and methods are changing fast. How can you find a dentist who is trained and qualified? Dr. Gordon Kent of The Smile Center in Buffalo, NY shares these tips.

It starts with a click

The internet puts a wealth of information at your fingertips. Begin with a general search for dentists in the Buffalo, NY area. Check websites, looking for those who indicate they do dental implants. Narrow your search by jotting down five or six whose location, hours, and general feel appeals to you.

Next, take a look at what real patients have to say about these doctors. Look for testimonials on the dentist’s website and social media pages like Facebook and Google+. There are plenty of independent sites where consumers can leave unbiased reviews, too.

Then a little old school

Your list should be a shorter now. It’s time for some old-fashioned word of mouth. Ask family members, co-workers, and friends to tell you about their experiences with these dentists. Inquire especially about dental implants.

The next step is critical. Call or visit the dentist’s office to ask for more specific information on their services with regard to implantology. Bear in mind that the procedure actually involves several steps:

• Pre-surgery planning to ensure precise positioning of the implant, with no surprises.
• Surgical placement of the implant into the jaw bone.
• The addition of a post or abutment, once the bone has fused around the implant.
• The restoration phase – design, fabrication, and placement of a beautiful porcelain crown.

While many dentists advertise that they perform dental implants, in reality, they handle only the restoration. Their patients are referred to an oral surgeon for the preliminary stages. That means more appointments, travel, and time away from work or home.

Why your search ends at The Smile Center

At The Smile Center the latest dental implant techniques are delivered in a convenient, familiar setting, in the care of people you know, from a dentist who understands your dental history. Dr. Kent handles every phase of the process gently and to exacting standards. His broad background in sociology, education, medicine, dental technology, and dentistry give him a unique perspective on all facets of patient care. He has specialized training in implantology and is a Fellow in a dental implant society called the American Society of Osseointegration. He has been placing dental implants since 1981, and has more years of experience in oral implantology than any other doctor in the region.

Dr. Kent encourages you to search for a dentist who is qualified to meet all of your oral healthcare needs. He is confident that the quest will lead you to make a call to The Smile Center at .