A Prostho-what? What is a Prosthodontist?
Why Should I See a Prosthodontist?
Several dental specialties are recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). You are probably familiar with what an orthodontist does and when to see an oral surgeon. But when you hear “prosthodontist,” you may wonder what exactly that means. You aren’t alone – many people aren’t sure exactly what a prosthodontist does.
What Does a Prosthodontist Do?
At Smileboston, our prosthodontist is an expert at repairing and restoring damaged or missing teeth. They can quickly identify the optimal treatment or restoration method for each patient’s unique situation and provide the appropriate care, including crowns, bridges, implants, and other artificial teeth. The advanced training of a prosthodontist ensures each patient’s restoration or repair fits perfectly, functions properly, and looks natural.
While general dentists can provide some of the same services as prosthodontists, they do not have the same training or experience in planning and executing treatments utilizing dental prosthetics or oral appliances. It is understandable – after all, a general dentist has a lot of different services to provide, including preventive and cosmetic care.
A prosthodontist focuses on repair and restoration daily, giving patients an exceptional experience and an in-depth understanding of function and aesthetics.
Definition of a Prosthodontist
The ADA recognizes prosthodontics as a dental specialty focusing on the “diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation, and maintenance of oral function, comfort, appearance, and health of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth or oral and maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible substitutes.”
That’s a lot of fancy words to say that prosthodontists specialize in dental prosthetics such as dentures, bridges, crowns, and dental implants. Prosthodontists also work with patients suffering from jaw disorders that affect the bite, including TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues.
A prosthodontist should be your first choice if you are interested in cosmetic restoration. While many dentists advertise as “cosmetic dentists,” this is not a recognized dental specialty and does not require additional training. Prosthodontists have skills and knowledge other dentists do not have.
What is the Difference Between a Dentist and a Prosthodontist?
The short answer is “four years,” but that is a simplification. All dentists have a degree in dentistry. However, a prosthodontist spends an additional three to four years studying techniques, specifically focusing on designing, creating, and placing dental prosthetics and correcting jaw problems.
Prosthodontists focus solely on repair and restoration, dedicating all their time and knowledge to restoring the function and appearance of patients’ teeth and gums. Because of their intimate knowledge of the form and aesthetics of the teeth, gums, and surrounding area, they are the best dentists to see whenever you need restoration or repair.
Benefits of Seeing a Prosthodontist
If a general dentist can provide dental repairs or restoration, why should you see a prosthodontist? Here are a few considerations:
- Prosthodontists have years of additional training on the specifics of the structure of the jawbone, oral cavity, teeth, and gums. They are dentists who have studied and trained for an additional four years focusing on dental prosthetics and jaw abnormalities.
- Prosthodontists are adept at fine-tuning the fit and appearance of dental prosthetics for a natural look at superior performance.
- Your prosthodontist works with you from the initial consultation to the final fitting to ensure you understand the process and are comfortable with your treatment.
- Prosthodontists have greater experience with complex jaw, chewing, and bite issues and use cutting-edge procedures to provide healthy, comfortable solutions.
Trust Your Care to a
Prosthodontist
Posted by
Dr. Spitz
on Apr 23rd, 2023
1:00 am
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