Dental implants have become the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, and more providers than ever are offering them. General dentists, periodontists, prosthodontists, and oral surgeons all perform implant procedures. So how do you decide who should place yours?

While many practitioners can technically place dental implants, oral and maxillofacial surgeons bring a unique combination of training, experience, and surgical capability that makes a meaningful difference—especially for complex cases. At Davary & Smith Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center in Sterling, Virginia, dual-degree surgeons Dr. Ashkan Davary and Dr. Christopher Smith specialize in implant placement at the highest level. Here's why that matters for your smile.

‍

1. Unmatched Surgical Training and Education

‍

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons complete the most extensive surgical training of any dental specialist. After dental school, they undergo four to six additional years of hospital-based residency training that includes general surgery rotations alongside medical residents. Many, like Dr. Davary and Dr. Smith, earn both dental (DDS) and medical (MD) degrees—a dual-degree background that provides comprehensive understanding of the entire body, not just the mouth.

This training covers complex procedures far beyond implant placement: facial trauma reconstruction, corrective jaw surgery, tumor removal, and management of medically compromised patients. When your oral surgeon has experience handling the most challenging surgical scenarios, routine implant placement becomes that much more precise and predictable.

General dentists who place implants typically complete short continuing education courses—sometimes just a weekend or a few weeks of training. That's a significant difference in preparation, particularly when complications arise or cases prove more complex than anticipated.

‍

2. Expertise in Bone Grafting and Site Preparation

‍

Successful dental implants require adequate bone to anchor the titanium post securely. Unfortunately, many patients have experienced bone loss due to missing teeth, gum disease, or previous extractions. When bone is insufficient, grafting procedures become necessary before or during implant placement.

Oral surgeons perform bone grafting routinely. They're trained in multiple grafting techniques—from minor ridge augmentation to major reconstructive procedures using bone harvested from other sites. They also perform sinus lifts, a specialized procedure that creates space for implants in the upper jaw where the sinus cavity limits available bone.

This expertise means oral surgeons can treat patients that other providers might turn away. If you've been told you're not a candidate for implants due to bone loss, an oral surgeon's evaluation may reveal options you didn't know existed.

‍

3. Safe,Comfortable Sedation Options

‍

Dental implant surgery doesn't have to be stressful. Oral surgeons are extensively trained in anesthesia—including IV sedation and, in some cases, general anesthesia—allowing patients to remain deeply relaxed or even asleep during procedures. This training happens during residency, in hospital operating rooms, under the supervision of anesthesiologists.

At Davary & Smith, the commitment to safety goes even further. The practice is built to NFPA 99 Category 1 hospital standards—one of the few oral surgery centers in Northern Virginia to meet this distinction. This means medical-grade monitoring equipment, advanced emergency preparedness systems, and backup power capabilities that ensure the highest level of anesthesia safety.

For patients with dental anxiety or those undergoing longer procedures, this level of sedation expertise and facility safety provides peace of mind that simply isn't available in most dental offices.

‍

4. Ability to Handle Complications

‍

Even well-planned implant procedures occasionally encounter unexpected challenges. Bone may be softer or harder than imaging suggested. Nerves or sinuses may sit closer than anticipated. Existing teeth may require extraction. Healing may not progress as expected.

When complications arise, oral surgeons have the training and experience to adapt. They've managed surgical emergencies, treated infections, repaired nerve injuries, and revised failed procedures. This background means they can recognize problems early, respond appropriately, and achieve successful outcomes even when cases don't go according to plan.

Choosing a provider based solely on cost or convenience makes sense when everything goes smoothly. But knowing your surgeon can handle whatever arises provides security that's hard to put a price on.

‍

5.Comprehensive Care From Extraction to Restoration

‍

Many patients need more than just implant placement. They may require extraction of failing teeth, treatment of infection, bone grafting, and careful planning to coordinate with their restorative dentist. Oral surgeons manage this entire surgical phase, creating a solid foundation for the final crown, bridge, or denture.

For patients missing multiple teeth or seeking full-arch solutions like All-on-4, oral surgeons provide the surgical expertise these complex cases demand. They work closely with restorative dentists and prosthodontists to ensure seamless coordination between the surgical and prosthetic phases of treatment.

At Davary & Smith, Dr. Davary and Dr. Smith take a comprehensive approach—evaluating each patient's unique anatomy, health history, and goals to develop a treatment plan that sets them up for long-term success. From the initial consultation through final healing, patients receive care from surgeons whose entire careers focus on these procedures.

‍

The Right Choice for Your Smile

‍

Dental implants represent a significant investment in your oral health, function, and confidence. Choosing the right provider to place them can mean the difference between a smooth experience with lasting results and a challenging journey with uncertain outcomes.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer the highest level of surgical training, the broadest range of capabilities, and the safest sedation options available. For straightforward cases, this expertise ensures precision and predictability. For complex cases, it makes treatment possible when other providers might not be able to help.

‍

Schedule Your Implant Consultation in Northern Virginia

‍

If you're considering dental implants—whether to replace a single tooth or restore an entire arch—schedule a consultation with the team at Davary & Smith Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center. Dr. Ashkan Davary and Dr. Christopher Smith combine dual-degree training, advanced surgical techniques, and a state-of-the-art facility designed for your safety and comfort.

Located in Sterling, Virginia, Davary & Smith serves patients throughout Northern Virginia with concierge-level care that makes even complex procedures feel manageable. Call (703) 972-7773 to schedule your appointment and discover what's possible for your smile.

‍