Choosing an Implant Dentist: Who Is Qualified?

In Australia, any registered dentist is legally permitted to place dental implants, there is no separate qualification or specialty registration required to do so. Because of this, the level of implant training a dentist has can vary widely. That’s why it’s worth seeking out a dentist who has gone the extra step and undertaken dedicated further study in implant dentistry, on top of their dental degree. This guide explains the rules, what they mean for you, and how to choose with confidence.

Who can place dental implants in Australia?

This surprises many people: in Australia, any registered dentist can legally place dental implants. Implant placement falls within the general scope of dentistry, so there is no mandatory course, certification or specialty registration a dentist must hold before placing implants. The skills can be developed through formal postgraduate study, hands-on courses, mentoring, or experience gained on the job.

Dentists are, however, expected to work within the limits of their own competence and training under the Dental Board of Australia’s code of conduct. So while no extra qualification is required, the amount and depth of implant training a dentist has actually done can differ enormously from one practitioner to the next.

Some registered dental specialists also work in areas related to implants, for example prosthodontists (who focus on restoring and replacing teeth, including implant prosthetics), oral and maxillofacial surgeons (who handle surgery of the mouth and jaws, and are often involved in complex cases), and periodontists (who focus on the gums and supporting structures). Some of these specialists are involved in implant treatment and some are not, it depends on the individual practitioner and the case.

Why dedicated further study matters

Because the law sets no minimum implant-specific training, the responsibility effectively falls to you to choose well. A dentist who has voluntarily invested in dedicated further study in implant dentistry beyond what’s required has chosen to deepen their knowledge of planning, surgery, materials and managing complications. That commitment is a meaningful signal when you’re deciding who to trust with treatment that’s surgical, significant and long-term.

Formal qualifications such as a Master degree in implant placement, is one example of this kind of further study. So are structured implant programs, recognised continuing education, and demonstrable experience with cases like yours. None of these is legally mandated, which is exactly why a dentist choosing to pursue them is worth noting.

Understanding “specialist” vs “general dentist”

In Australia, “specialist” is a protected title. A dentist can only call themselves a specialist (such as a specialist periodontist or prosthodontist) if they are registered in that specialty with the Dental Board of Australia, which requires additional accredited training. A general dentist who has done extensive implant training is still, in registration terms, a general dentist, even if they place implants regularly.

This is worth understanding so you can interpret what you read. What counts is not just the label but the actual training, qualifications and experience behind it.