Get to Know Your Doctor: Q&A with Dr. DeFelice

Going through dental implant surgery is a life-changing experience. Before going through surgery, patients want to know that they can trust their surgeon to provide them with the best care available. Matthew A. DeFelice, DDS is one of those surgeons.

A graduate of the University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Dentistry, Dr. DeFelice completed his Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at Boston University Medical Center in 2000. As a leader in his profession, he serves as a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, as well as The National Board of Dental Anesthesia. Dr. DeFelice is also a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Tennessee Dental Association.

To help potential patients get to know him better, Dr. DeFelice took the time to answer a few questions. During the interview, he shares his reasons for becoming a dental surgeon and emphasizes that dental implants are the right choice for most patients who need tooth replacement.

Q&A with Dr. DeFelice: Thoughts on His Career and Dental Implants

What inspired you to go into Oral Surgery?

“I have always enjoyed and excelled at science. More than that, though, I wanted to help people. Becoming a doctor seemed like a good career fit. In addition, I was also good with my hands, so dentistry seemed like the natural choice.

“Once I became exposed to all the disciplines within dentistry, I knew that Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery was my calling. I really admired the techniques and procedures within the specialty. 16 years later, I am very happy and content with the career choice I made long ago.”

What changes have you seen in dental implant surgery during your career?

“There have been many changes in implant dentistry over the past 20 years. The biggest change has been the choices we have in regards to the materials and surface coatings of the dental implants.

“In addition, the second biggest change would be that dental practitioners are placing and restoring dental implants. When I first started my career, most of the dental implants were placed by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and Periodontists. Today, we see more and more general practitioners placing them, as well as other dental specialists. I believe this is a direct result of the marketing strategies of the dental implant companies and how they are geared toward total sales and increasing the request for these services.”

When do you encourage patients to choose implants over other types of tooth replacement?

“The short answer is always. I believe that dental implants are the closest option we currently have to replacing and replicating a natural tooth. If other restorative options are chosen by a patient, that decision is usually due to financial constraints—not biological—or a contraindication.”

What misconceptions are there about dental implants?

“I hear many misconceptions that my patients have. Some of the most frequent of these are:

1. I am not able to afford dental implants.
2. I am too old for dental implants.
3. I have a medical condition that precludes dental implant placement.

“There is no true contraindication for dental implant placement, only relative contraindications. Age and the overwhelming majority of medical conditions are not a contraindication to dental implants.

“As far as financial concerns, it really comes down to patient education. Our office tries to present the treatment plan—with or without insurance—in the most cost-effective way for the patient. We also incorporate third-party options and payment plans. The most important thing is to impress upon patients that this is an investment in their oral health. No matter what people do on a daily basis, they will always use their mouth.”

End Your Search for the Right Dental Surgeon

Dr. DeFelice’s dedication, experience, and expertise make him an ideal choice for a dental surgeon. As a patient of Dr. DeFelice, you will benefit from the latest developments in dental implant technology. He and his staff will work with you to ensure that you can reach your goal of recovering a beautiful smile that lasts forever.

Take advantage of Dr. DeFelice’s dedication, experience, and expertise. Reach out to Cumberland Surgical Arts for a dental consultation today.