Many patients call us asking for a dental implant specialist as they believe that it means having implants done by an expert dental implant doctor. However, did you know that there is no such thing as a dental implant specialist?
The “Dental Implant Specialist” Myth
If you have ever Googled “dental implant specialist in Singapore,” you would probably see clinics claiming to have “accredited implant dentists” or “implant specialists.” Here is the truth! There is no such official title that exists under the Singapore Ministry of Health (MOH) or the Singapore Dental Council (CDC).
This article has been written to help you better understand who is qualified to perform dental implants, what “accreditation” really means in this context, and how to better choose a safe and qualified dentist for your dental implant treatment.
What “Accredited Dental Implant Specialist” Really Means
Let us start by clarifying the biggest misconception.
According to the Singapore Dental Council (SDC), there are seven officially recognized dental specialties:
- Endodontics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMS)
- Orthodontics
- Paediatric Dentistry
- Periodontics
- Prosthodontics
- Public Health Dentistry
Notice that dental implantology is NOT on the list.
This means the title “implant specialist” is not a formally recognised designation in Singapore.
What does this mean for patients like yourself?
When a dentist or clinic markets themselves as an “implant specialist,” it is not to say that they have an MOH-accredited specialty. What they might be doing is highlighting their training or experience in implant procedures.
This can be perfectly legitimate as long as it is truthful and does not mislead patients into assuming formal accreditation.
Who Actually Performs Dental Implant Procedures
Dental implant treatment involves precise planning, surgery, crown restoration, and long-term maintenance, so multiple types of dentists and dental specialists can be involved:
1. General Dentists
General dentists can perform dental implants. In fact, many dentists perform dental implants after attending certifications and courses. Some have even completed advanced postgraduate training or continuing education for implant placement.
The most common obtain certifications from institutions such as:
- NUS Graduate Diploma in Dental Implantology (GDDI)
- ITI (International Team for Implantology) Education Programs
- AAID (American Academy of Implant Dentistry)
Others attend more practical focused implant courses with actual experience, placing around 30 dental implants during a three days to week-long course.
In Singapore, general dentists are legally allowed to place dental implants, provided they are properly trained and act within their scope of competence.
2. Prosthodontists
Prosthodontists are MOH-recognized specialists who focus on restoring teeth and oral function.
They often handle:
- Implant restorations (crowns, bridges, dentures)
- Complex bite rehabilitation
- Full-mouth reconstructions
They typically collaborate with oral surgeons or trained general dentists who place the implants.
3. Periodontists
Periodontists are MOH-recognised specialists who are able to restore gum health and ensure that implants are placed in the right foundations.
They often work with:
- Gum restorations (e.g. gum grafting, gum surgery)
- Bone regeneration
- Implant surgery
4. Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (OMS)
OMS specialists are the most surgically trained. They are qualified to perform:
- Implant placement surgeries
- Bone grafts and sinus lifts
- Full arch (All-on-4/All-on-6) procedures
They work closely with prosthodontists or restorative dentists to ensure functional and aesthetic outcomes.
What “Accredited” Might Mean in Marketing Terms
In most cases, when a clinic says their dentist is “accredited” or “certified,” they are referring to completion of reputable implant training programs, not an MOH-recognized specialty.
Common “Accreditations” You May See
| Program | Institution | Type | MOH-Recognized? |
| ITI Certification | International Team for Implantology | Continuing education | ❌ No |
| GDDI | National University of Singapore | Postgraduate Diploma | ❌ No |
| AAID Associate Fellow | American Academy of Implant Dentistry | Professional Fellowship | ❌ No |
These credentials reflect training depth and professional commitment, not government accreditation or experience.
Why Accreditation Confusion Matters
This distinction is not just about semantics. It is only about patient safety and informed decision-making.
Risks of Misunderstanding Titles
- Patients might assume all “implant specialists” have the same level of practical and actual case experience training. This is not true.
- Some might choose based on titles rather than relying on actual case experience or technology.
- Others may overpay, thinking they are seeing an “exclusive” specialist or a specialist that is an expert in dental implants.
What Actually Matters More Than Titles
- Experience: How many implant cases has the dentist successfully completed?
- Technology: Does the clinic use CBCT (3D imaging), digital planning, or guided surgery systems?
- Safety Protocols: Are sterile surgical setups and consent procedures followed? Is the dental surgeon able to handle complications carefully and predictably?
- Transparency: Are treatment risks, costs, and outcomes discussed clearly before starting?
How to Choose the Right Dentist for Dental Implants
Here’s a practical checklist to evaluate your options:
| Factor | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
| Experience | 100+ successful implant cases for both single and multi-unit implant restorations | Builds clinical confidence to work with a wide range of implant cases and possible complications. |
| Technology | In-house CBCT, 3D intraoral scanners, guided surgery tools, plasma machine for pre-implant surgery, laser machine (e.g. Fontona, Waterlase). | Improves precision, safety and predictability of implant surgery. |
| Detailed Consultation | Comprehensive consultation that helps you feel more informed. | Builds trust. |
| Transparency | Clear breakdown of costs and timelines | Prevents hidden surprises. |
| Results | Before-after photos (shared privately). | Confirms quality and aesthetics. |
Look for experience and number of dental implants done successfully, not just titles!
There is no MOH-accredited “implant specialist” in Singapore. What truly matters is the training, experience and integrity of the dentist, and not just their marketing labels.
When choosing where to get dental implants, look for an experienced clinician who can explain clearly what is being done and why, a dental clinic who uses modern technology to ensure predictability and precision of implant placement, longevity of the implant and safety.
If you are still considering dental implants, speak to one of our qualified dental implant focused dentists who can guide you through the process safely, transparently, and confidently.
