What is a prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating dental and facial matters that are complex, this includes the restoration and replacement of teeth that are missing or damaged, with artificial devices. They have had training that is high in dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, jaw disorders, and more.

It is estimated that nearly 300,000 people in the United States receive dental implants every year. Most of these are assessed and positioned by their general dentist or a prosthodontist. Prosthodontists also specialize in cosmetic dentistry, which has been on the rise in recent years. Studies show that 25% of Americans say that their smile or teeth are the one facial feature they would change to boost their self-esteem. This type of dentist has a careful understanding of the dynamics of a smile and the preservation of a healthy mouth.

What does a prosthodontist do?

Prosthodontists are dental specialists who focus on repairing natural teeth and replacing missing teeth. They use artificial teeth (dentures), dental implants, caps, or crowns to replace missing or extracted (removed) teeth. Prosthodontists who have undergone special training also work with people with head and neck deformities, replacing missing parts of the jaw and face.

Reasons to see prosthodontists

There are many reasons to visit a prosthodontist, such as after an accident involving the mouth, for a congenital condition, or for cosmetic reasons. Prosthodontists are extensively trained in state-of-the-art techniques and procedures for treating complex dental conditions, which may not be able to be treated by traditional dentists.

Prosthodontists specialize in designing and fitting crowns, bridges, and dentures. They will first assess the current condition of your gums and jawbone to determine the best size and shape for the prosthesis, and then design one to those specifications.

If you are experiencing temporomandibular problems or disorders, you should see a prosthodontist. This is the specialist who deals with the muscles and joints around the jaw, and most people refer to the condition as TMJ. Many people have problems in this area that become more noticeable when yawning, chewing or sleeping, but a prosthodontist can help by providing the right treatment.

Traumatic injury repairs

Prosthodontists specialize in repairing damage to the mouth, teeth, and face that has been caused by trauma.

What to expect at the prosthodontist

If you have been referred to a prosthodontist, you can expect your appointment to be different from a routine dental appointment. Prosthodontists are specialists who deal with issues relating to the look or function of teeth or mouth.