Prosthodontics

Key Takeaways

• Prosthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on restoring and rehabilitating oral functions.
• You should see a prosthodontist if you need dental restorations or have temporomandibular joint issues.
• Prosthodontists study for an additional three years after dental school to specialize in this field.
• They typically have a board certification from the American Board of Prosthodontics (ABP).
• Prosthodontists can perform procedures for dental implants, dentures, and veneers.

What is Prosthodontics?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes prosthodontics as a specialized branch of dentistry focused on dental restoration procedures. It involves designing and developing prosthetics for the mouth and jaw.

These dental prosthetics typically include:

• Dentures
• Crowns
• Bridges
• Oral splints
• Nightguards
• Mouthguards

Prosthodontists treat people who need artificial replacements in their mouth or jaw and often deal with complex cases that general dentists can’t handle.

What are the Credentials of a Prosthodontist?

Prosthodontists have a bachelor’s degree in dentistry. They’re usually members of the American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) and need to finish another 3 years of advanced training post-dental school.

Some prosthodontists also earn a master’s degree during their residency. A prosthodontist trains extensively in:

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

What Do Prosthodontists Treat?

Prosthodontists can treat facial or oral problems caused by:

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

Prosthodontists have more advanced specialty training than regular dentists regarding restoring and replacing teeth. They can perform procedures like dental implants, crowns, dentures, and bridges.

When Should You See a Prosthodontist?

You should consult a prosthodontist if you need extensive dental restorations. They should be consulted before surgery or treatment for complex, atypical, or extensive oral issues.

The following situations are when you should see a prosthodontist:

1. Full Mouth Reconstruction

A full mouth reconstruction is necessary when teeth have extensive damage. It involves rebuilding and replacing all the teeth in a person’s mouth to improve oral function.

A full mouth reconstruction can occur due to traumatic injuries or severe tooth decay. It can include treatments like:

• Full-mouth dental implants
• Onlays
• Crowns
• Veneers

2. Bone Grafts

A bone graft may be necessary if a person doesn't have enough bone in the jaw. During the procedure, a prosthodontist harvests bone tissue from other body parts. They will then insert it into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for dental implants.

3. Dental Implants

Dental implants can restore one or more missing teeth. The entire treatment consists of two parts

The first part is the implant procedure. Here the surgeon will place a titanium screw into your jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root.

After that is the restoration procedure. During the procedure, a prosthodontist will place a crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

4. Veneers

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

They can be made of dental composite resin or porcelain. People usually get this procedure for cosmetic reasons.

Veneers are permanent procedures. They can change the color, shape, and size of your teeth.

5. Smile Makeover

A smile makeover is a cosmetic dental procedure. It’s similar to a 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 headaches, earaches, pain, and discomfort when opening or closing the mouth.

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

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