How Is a Prosthodontist Different From Other Dentists?

Basically, the term “prostho” refers to replacement and “dontist” refers to dealing with teeth. A prosthodontist is the recognized expert when anything needs to be replaced in your mouth. This can range from a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth as well as gums in the mouth. While many other dentists can do some of these treatments, prosthodontists are the specialists dedicated to this type of care.

An easy way to understand this contrast is to use the comparison of a plastic surgeon. Although you might go to a dermatologist to remove a small blemish, you would want a plastic surgeon for major reconstructive or aesthetic procedures. In the same way, prosthodontists are consulted to reconstruct the mouth using crowns, bridges, partial and complete dentures, veneers and bonding, dental implants and maxillofacial prostheses.

Which Procedures Would a Prosthodontist Help Me With?

These specialists plan and carry out procedures related to the replacement of natural teeth, in part or in full, with compatible substitutes. Some of these treatments include:

  • Crowns — Artificial covers (often referred to as “caps”) that replace the entire visible surface of a tooth above the gum line. Fabricated of porcelain, metal or porcelain fused to metal, crowns are basically cemented to a prepared tooth with intact roots. They are often required after a root canal procedure or to repair fractured, broken or worn teeth.
  • Fixed Bridges — This tooth-replacement procedure uses the existing, healthy teeth (called abutment teeth) on either side of a gap to support one or more artificial teeth. A series of linked crowns is fabricated into a single system, which is then attached to the prepared abutment teeth. These work in much the same way as a bridge on a roadway to hold up the crowns for the missing teeth in between. Bridges are a time-tested tooth-replacement method, but require special attention to cleaning.
  • Dentures — This dental option is available in various types, including full, partial and implant-supported varieties. Dentures can improve the aesthetics and functionality if teeth are missing, particularly when the dentures are of high quality and fitted correctly in the mouth.
  • Porcelain Veneers — Veneers are wafer-thin shells of ceramic material that are bonded to teeth that have been prepared by having a small amount of enamel removed, so they do not appear too bulky. Long-lasting veneers can create a distinct change in appearance by altering the size, shape or color of teeth and even closing small gaps between.
  • Dental Implants — When it is necessary to replace the entire tooth (both roots and crown), implants are considered to be today’s top option. Implants consist of a titanium metal post which is implanted in the jaw in a minor surgical procedure. This screw-like post becomes fused with the jaw bone, providing a solid foundation for a lifelike crown. Implants can be used to replace single or multiple teeth or to support other types of dental restorations, such as bridges or dentures.
  • Maxillofacial Prosthetics – Prostheses are often needed to replace missing areas of bone or tissue and restore oral functions such as swallowing, speech, and chewing. Patients with defects or disabilities that were present when born or developed due to disease or trauma may require these devices. Patients who typically desire prosthetic care are those that have been in an accident, have had surgical removal of diseased tissues or have a neuromuscular disorder from ALS or a stroke.

How Do You Know If You Need A Prosthodontist?

  • Do your teeth have severe wear?
  • Do you have several missing or broken teeth?
  • Is your bite wearing down?
  • Are you looking to improve the look and feel of misaligned or damaged teeth?
  • Do you wear or need dentures or removable partial dentures?
  • Are you seeking the highest quality esthetic result?

    • If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, Desert Dental would love to discuss how prosthodontics can improve your oral health and confidence.

Desert Dental Specialty Group is the only dental group in the La Quinta area that combines specialties of Prosthodontics, Periodontics, and Endodontics with General Dental Care for the entire family. Call and make an appointment today (760) 568-5928