Having healthy and functioning teeth are very important to your overall health. Keeping your teeth regularly cared for by a dentist can reduce extensive procedures. However, regardless of the care you have taken, you may be missing teeth or have a tooth that has become decayed. In this case, a board-certified prosthodontist specializes in restoring your mouth to its natural beauty.
General Dentist
A general dentist is capable of caring for many aspects of your teeth. They are greatly practiced in handling cavities, root canals, cleanings, and other preventative measures. While your general dentist can provide you with the regular services you need to keep your smile healthy, some treatment plans are best executed by a specialist in the field.
Prosthodontist
A prosthodontist specializes in partial and full mouth restorations. They have been extensively trained to create full-mouth dentures, bridges, crowns, and dental implants that blend perfectly with your existing teeth. As a specialist in the dental field, a prosthodontist has the necessary skills to evaluate your needs and suggest the best possible treatment plans to restore your smile.
What Sets Board-Certified Prosthodontists Apart?
Advanced Education and Training To become a prosthodontist, a dentist must complete three additional years of specialized training beyond dental school. Board certification requires passing a rigorous exam administered by the American Board of Prosthodontics, ensuring the specialist is up-to-date with the latest techniques, materials, and best practices in the field.
Expertise in Complex Dental Restorations Prosthodontists handle cases involving dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, and full-mouth reconstructions. They’re also trained to address facial and jaw issues, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. If you’re dealing with extensive tooth loss, misaligned teeth, or a damaged smile, a prosthodontist is uniquely qualified to create a functional, natural-looking result.
Key Benefits of Seeing a Board-Certified Prosthodontist
- Custom Treatment Plans Prosthodontists create personalized treatment plans based on each patient’s unique needs. Unlike general dentists, they have the skills to approach complicated cases with a holistic view. For example, if you’re missing multiple teeth, they’ll evaluate your bite, jaw alignment, and facial symmetry to ensure the final restoration looks and feels natural.
- State-of-the-Art Techniques and Materials Prosthodontists stay at the forefront of dental technology, using modern materials like zirconia and advanced 3D imaging technology to design precise restorations. Their expertise in digital dentistry allows them to create prosthetics with unparalleled accuracy and durability.
- Improved Aesthetics and Functionality Restoring your smile’s appearance is just as important as ensuring its function. Prosthodontists are highly skilled in designing natural-looking restorations that match the shape, size, and color of your teeth. Their attention to detail helps patients regain confidence in their smile while also improving chewing and speech capabilities.
Procedures Performed by Board-Certified Prosthodontists
- Dental Implants Prosthodontists are leaders in dental implant treatment, which involves surgically placing an artificial tooth root in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. They assess your jawbone’s density and structure to determine if you’re a candidate for implants. Their expertise ensures the implant’s precise placement, leading to better long-term success.
- Full Mouth Reconstruction When patients have multiple dental issues—such as broken, decayed, or missing teeth—a full mouth reconstruction may be necessary. Prosthodontists take a comprehensive approach to restore both the function and aesthetics of the entire mouth. This process may involve crowns, veneers, bridges, and implants.
- Dentures and Partial Dentures While general dentists can provide dentures, prosthodontists specialize in creating custom-fitted dentures that offer superior comfort and function. They’re trained to design dentures that look more natural and feel more secure, reducing common issues like slippage and discomfort.
- Crowns and Bridges Crowns and bridges are common restorative procedures used to repair damaged teeth or fill gaps caused by tooth loss. Prosthodontists’ advanced training allows them to craft custom restorations that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, improving both aesthetics and oral health.
- Treatment of TMJ Disorders Jaw pain and issues related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can cause headaches, facial pain, and difficulty chewing. Prosthodontists are trained to diagnose and treat TMJ disorders using a range of therapies, from bite adjustments to custom oral appliances.
Why you should see a Board Certified Prosthodontist?
A board-certified prosthodontist has appeared before the American Board of Prosthodontics and been tested on their knowledge of this highly specialized field of dentistry. The individual is required to present completed cases for review by a panel of qualified prosthodontists. After a thorough examination process, the board will deem the individual a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics. At that time, they also become a Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists (FACP). When an individual passes this criteria, you can be sure that they are trusted in their field of expertise.
Here are some more reasons to see a board-certified Prosthodontist:
- Comprehensive Approach to Oral Health: While general dentists can handle routine cleanings and fillings, prosthodontists have a broader perspective on oral health. They consider how every component of your smile—teeth, gums, jaw, and facial structure—works together. This holistic approach ensures a result that’s both beautiful and functional.
- Access to Cutting-Edge Technology: Board-certified prosthodontists have access to the latest technology in digital imaging, 3D printing, and advanced materials. These tools enable them to create more precise restorations, reduce treatment time, and improve patient comfort.
- Restoration of Confidence and Quality of Life: A healthy, attractive smile can significantly boost your self-confidence. Missing, broken, or misaligned teeth can affect your ability to speak, eat, and smile naturally. Prosthodontists’ specialized care can restore not only your smile’s appearance but also your overall quality of life.
When Should You See a Board-Certified Prosthodontist?
You should consider seeing a board-certified prosthodontist if you’re facing any of the following issues:
- Missing Teeth: Whether you’re missing one tooth or multiple, a prosthodontist can offer advanced solutions, such as dental implants or bridges.
- Damaged or Worn Teeth: Teeth that are cracked, chipped, or worn down due to grinding can be restored with crowns, veneers, or bonding.
- TMJ Pain: Chronic jaw pain or clicking sounds when you chew may be a sign of TMJ disorder, which prosthodontists are trained to treat.
- Full Smile Makeover: If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile, a prosthodontist can design a customized treatment plan to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile
If you’re ready to restore your smile’s appearance, function, and health, it’s time to schedule a consultation with a board-certified prosthodontist. Their advanced training, state-of-the-art techniques, and patient-first approach make them the ideal choice for complex dental cases. Don’t wait—take the first step toward a beautiful, functional smile today.
