Prosthodontics (Prosthetic Dentistry)
What is a Prosthodontist?
Prosthodontists are dental specialists who work on the restoration and replacement of teeth. Prosthodontists are recognized by the American Dental Association. They have completed four years of dental school and have trained for an additional three years in an accredited graduate education program. These dental specialists have detailed knowledge of the aesthetics of smiles, and they also have extensive training in keeping mouths healthy. Serving as the “architect” of a dental treatment plan, in most cases, prosthodontists will work with general dentists and other professionals in the health and dental fields to create specific plans of action aimed at solving individualized problems for unique patients. They will help diagnose problems, implement repairs and maintain repairs for patients.
Prosthodontist – A Specialist in the restoration & replacement of teeth.
Prosthodontic procedures include making porcelain veneers, crowns, bridges and complete and removable dentures and implants and fitting them for patients. Prosthodontists restore and replace teeth, and they can create artificial replacements that look like the real thing, and they can reshape, re-stain or polish old, chipped or otherwise damaged teeth to make them look as good as new. Teeth may need replacing for a variety of reasons, including overcrowding (which may lead to gum disease), sleep disorders, neglect, stress along the jaw line, trauma from accidents, diseases such as oral cancer or congenital defects. Often, the restoration process produces more than cosmetic results. Obviously, patients will look and feel better when they have brighter, fuller smiles, but in addition, in some cases, they may snore less and breathe or swallow more easily. People tend to be amazed at the results, especially when the prosthodontist is working with their natural teeth!
Prosthodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. Extensive training and experience equip prosthodontists with the ability to provide an extremely high level of care to patients with missing teeth and patients who have significant damage to their existing teeth.
Prosthodontists treat many complicated dental conditions and restore the working order and aesthetic appearance of teeth and the surrounding areas. These procedures may include the installation of crowns, bridges, complete and removable partial dentures and dental implants for TMD-jaw joint problems, traumatic injuries to the mouth’s structures and/or teeth, snoring, sleep disorders, oral cancer reconstruction and continuing care. You should consult your doctor for questions about what prosthodontic treatment could do for you.
What is a Board Certified Prosthodontist?
The American Board of Prosthodontics (ABP) is the official governing body of the ACP responsible for recognizing and certifying those individuals who have the knowledge, skills and attributes deemed important to the advancement of the specialty of prosthodontics. The ABP is responsible for setting the standards and criteria for being recognized as a board certified prosthodontist. The ABP develops and administers the certification examination in prosthodontics.
