Prosthodontics, also known as prosthetic dentistry or dental prosthetics is one of the nine recognized dental specialties by the American Dental Association (ADA). Prosthodontists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth. They also perform higher levels of artistic implantology and full mouth reconstruction.
Prosthodontists are highly trained individuals who must complete an additional 3-4 in an ADA-accredited program after completing the 4-year dental program in an accredited institution. In all, prosthodontists spend up to 12 years after high school training to become licensed prosthodontists. A very popular term that is used to refer to toothless patients is ‘edentulous.’ We will use this term throughout the article.
Prosthodontic Treatment
Prosthodontists provide several different levels of care and work closely with patients to develop comprehensive, long and short-term treatment plans. Depending on the severity of the patient’s condition and the condition or problem itself, will determine the necessary steps you may need to take to accomplish the smile you’re looking for. The following list consists of the various treatment procedures prosthodontists use on their patients:
Esthetic Reconstructive Dentistry- Edentulous patients who need the highest level of implantology treatment usually receive treatment known as esthetic reconstructive dentistry. It is the most advanced approach to providing full or partial dental implants while maximizing the connection between the implant and living bone.
Veneers- Veneers are usually associated with cosmetic dentistry, since a new tooth is bonded onto the old one, presenting a new, beautiful tooth or set of teeth. However, many people elect to have veneers used for many reasons other then a smile makeover including chips, cracks, tooth discoloration and uneven teeth.
Removable Dentures- These can be either partial or complete dentures and are usually for edentulous people who have lost their teeth for reasons such as poor oral hygiene, trauma, or those who need better chewing abilities. They are also chosen over fixed dentures, making them easily removable and replaceable.
Fixed Dentures- Many times, people who need partial dentures elect to have fixed dentures, or dental bridges. Patients must qualify by having enough supporting tissues for the fixed dentures to attach too, if not they must have removable ones made. Also, there is no such thing as a complete fixed set of dentures.
Dental Bridges- Dental bridges are used for qualified, partially-edentulous people and can be either tooth or implant supported. In most cases, dental bridges are used as replacements for removable partial dentures.
Dental Crowns- Dental crowns can be made of either ceramic, metal or a combination of both, and are considered prosthetic teeth that resemble natural teeth. Generally broken, chipped, cracked or damaged teeth are candidates for crowns.
Prosthodontists are also known to help patients who have mouth defects, for example, when teeth never develop. Prosthodontists can determine the best ways to replace missing teeth. They are also known to help restore teeth back to their proper functions and form. Sometimes, it is only the prosthodontists expertise that is needed to help a patient, as other dental specialists are able to perform some of the necessary procedures listed above, and might even exhibit better prices.
Am I a Candidate for a Prosthodontist?
Here are a few questions that may or may not suggest you need to see a prosthodontist:
- Do you have missing or undeveloped teeth?
- Do you feel a prosthodontists opinion would be more powerful than your general dentist’s opinion?
- Has your general dentist promoted dental implants, veneers, bridges or crowns whether or not you agree?
- Have other people (not necessarily dental professionals) recommended one to you?
- Would be easy to locate one?
- Are you interested in dental implants?
- Do you already wear partial or complete dentures?
- Do you want to improve your smile?
The important thing to remember is that dentists compete for your business. Many of the procedures mentioned above can be performed by your general or cosmetic dentist, however prosthodontists have more expertise, education and training in the field of prosthetic dentistry. Prosthetic dentistry is also for people who are interested in improving their smile and/or appearance of their oral and maxillofacial (mouth, jaw, and neck) region. Prosthetic dentistry can be costly, depending on the dentist, procedure, type of materials used and treatment plan length. For example, ceramic dental veneers can be priced at $3,500 per tooth. It’s also important to note, that not all cosmetic dentistry procedures are covered under normal dental insurance plans. Generally, it’s only in extreme or severe situations that call for immediate dental care, such as being in a car accident, when dental insurance plans cover the costs of the dental care procedures.
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