What is Prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is a branch of dentistry specializing in replacing teeth and other parts of the mouth and face. It’s one of the dental specialties duly recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA).

Prosthodontics involves designing, developing, replacing, and restoring dental and oral functions. It also involves the rehabilitation and maintenance of artificial replacements.

What Does a Prosthodontist Do?

A person who specializes in prosthodontics is called a prosthodontist. They treat and diagnose people who need artificial replacements in their mouth or jaw. They also deal with complex cases that a general dentist can’t handle.

General dentists can do routine teeth placements. But prosthodontists are experts in these procedures. They also specialize in treating more sensitive and complex dental conditions.

Education & Training

Prosthodontists have a bachelor’s degree in dentistry. Additionally, they must finish another 3 years of advanced training post-dental school.

A prosthodontist trains extensively in:

• Cosmetic surgery
• Implants
• Crowns
• Bridges
• Dentures
• Other complicated mouth issues

How Do Prosthodontists Differ From Other Dentists?

Generally speaking, a prosthodontist has more advanced specialty training than a regular dentist. They have expertise in replacing any part of the mouth. They are also considered experts in restoring and replacing teeth.

Dentists focus mainly on dental care. Prosthodontists primarily conduct cosmetic surgery in the mouth.

Prosthodontists also treat facial problems caused by:

• Missing natural teeth
• Abnormal jaw structures
• Issues with maxillofacial tissues

6 Reasons to See a Prosthodontist

A person should consult a prosthodontist if they need extensive dental restorations. This can help create optimal oral health and treat certain clinical conditions in the mouth.

Prosthodontists are experts in complex restoration or replacement. They should be consulted before surgery or treatment for any complex, atypical, or extensive oral issues.

Here are the procedures and treatments only certified prosthodontics can do:

1. Full Mouth Reconstruction

Full mouth reconstruction is necessary when teeth have extensive damage. Causes are traumatic injuries and/or decay. It involves the rebuilding or replacing of teeth in a person’s mouth.

Full mouth reconstruction often includes different treatments such as:

• Full mouth dental implants
• Onlays
• Crowns
• Veneers

It improves the function of the entire mouth.

2. Bone Grafts

In a bone grafting procedure, the prosthodontist will harvest bone tissue from other body parts. They will then insert it into the jawbone. This provides a stable foundation for dental implants.

3. Dental Implants

Dental implants restore one or more missing teeth. Treatment planning consists of two parts:

First is the implant itself. A piece of titanium is surgically placed and will act as an artificial root.

The second part involves the restoration. The prosthodontist will place a crown on the titanium, which serves as the artificial tooth.

4. Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers or dental veneers are custom-made, tooth-colored shells. They cover the front surfaces of teeth.

People usually opt for this procedure to improve aesthetics. Veneers can change the color, shape, and size of teeth. They are permanent solutions.

5. Smile Makeover

A smile makeover is a cosmetic dental procedure. It’s similar to full mouth reconstruction in that it involves multiple treatments.

A smile makeover changes the entire appearance of the teeth when you smile.

Examples of treatment for a smile makeover include:

• Bleaching or teeth whitening
• Aligning teeth
• Cosmetic tooth bonding
• Replacing missing teeth

6. TMJ Disorder Treatment

TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), requires treatment from a prosthodontist.

People with TMD experience pain including headaches, earaches, or discomfort when opening and closing the mouth.

There are multiple methods that a prosthodontist may recommend. These include:

• Arthrocentesis
• Injection
• TMJ arthroscopy
• Modified condylotomy
• Open-joint surgery

Need to know

Appointments

• Usually 2 to 3 appointments
• At the first consultation visit your dentist will examine your teeth
• The next visit will be for the treatment
• Further appointments may be needed for more complex treatments, like dentures.

How long it takes

• The first consultation visit will usually take around 30 minutes
• Treatment visits will usually take around 60 to 90 minutes

You may be asked about

• Your dental history and medical history
• Your oral health care routine at home

Before your appointment

• No special preparation needed

After your appointment

• Follow your post-treatment recommendations from the prosthodontist
• Avoid overly hard or chewy foods for a few days
• Eat soft and easy-to-chew foods after treatment
• Warm salt water rinse to help with healing if needed
• Use pain relief medication if you’re experiencing pain

Quick tip

Good oral hygiene will extend the life of your prosthodontic treatment. Take good care of your oral health by flossing daily, brushing twice daily and regularly visiting the dentist and hygienist.