Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry dedicated to making dental prosthetics (artificial teeth) for damaged or missing teeth. The word “prosthodontics” comes from the words “prostho,” meaning replacement, and “dontist,” meaning teeth.

A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who makes crowns, bridges and dentures, and provides other restorative treatments. They treat a range of issues. Your general dentist might refer you to a prosthodontist if you have:

• Missing or severely damaged teeth
• Cosmetic concerns
• Symptoms of TMJ disorders
• Mouth or facial pain
• Obstructive sleep apnea

What are the four branches of prosthodontics?

There are four main subspecialty areas within prosthodontics:

• Fixed: These are permanent treatments, like crowns, bridges and veneers.
• Removable: These are oral appliances you can take out, like dentures.
• Implant: These are restorations that replace a single tooth, or that support fixed or removable prosthodontics.
• Maxillofacial: These are replacements for missing parts of your face or mouth, including those that help with chewing, speaking and swallowing. These issues may happen because of conditions present at birth. Or they may result from facial injuries or surgery to remove cancer.

What happens during this treatment?

Many dental treatments are prosthodontic. Common examples include:

• Dental bridge: A dental prosthetic that replaces one or more missing teeth in a row
• Dental crown: A tooth-shaped cap that covers a badly damaged tooth
• Dental implant: A tiny threaded post that replaces a missing tooth root
• Full and partial dentures: Removable appliances that replace a full arch of missing teeth or several missing teeth
• Inlays and onlays: Custom restorations that fit into a damaged tooth structure like tiny puzzle pieces
• Mouth guards: Dental appliances that cover and protect your teeth, like night guards, and devices that reposition your jaw to help you breathe better at night

Your general dentist may offer many of these procedures. But they’ll likely refer you to a prosthodontist if your case is complex or if they need to coordinate treatment.

What are the potential benefits and risks?

Prosthodontic treatments can:

• Repair badly damaged teeth
• Replace missing teeth
• Improve your bite (the way your teeth fit together)
• Correct TMJ issues
• Boost your confidence in your smile

Risks are minimal when it comes to getting prosthodontic procedures. Like any dental procedure, there’s always a small risk of infection or nerve damage.

How long will it take for me to feel better?

Recovery time depends on many factors, like the type of procedure and how many teeth need treatment. For example, you can resume normal activity almost immediately after getting a crown. But if you get full dentures on both arches, you may need to rest at home for a few days to allow for healing.

Depending on the type of treatment you need, it could take several coordinated visits to complete. This may take many months. You may also need an extended period of time to adjust to having new teeth. Ask your dentist or prosthodontist what kind of timeline to expect.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

If you’ve recently had this treatment, call your provider if you notice signs of infection. Things to look out for include:

• Fever
• Drainage near the treatment site
• Pain or swelling that doesn’t go away with medicine

What is the difference between a dentist and a prosthodontist?

A general dentist is a primary dental care provider. They offer routine dental check-ups and cleanings. They also do basic restorative treatments, including fillings, crowns and bridges.

A prosthodontist is a dental specialist. After graduating from dental school, they receive three or four more years of residency training. They specialize in making teeth replacements, like crowns, bridges, dentures and more.

General dentists often refer to prosthodontists when dealing with complex cases.

What is the difference between orthodontics and prosthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry dedicated to straightening teeth. An orthodontist specializes in braces, clear aligners and retainers.

Prosthodontics is the branch of dentistry focused on making dental prostheses. A prosthodontist specializes in making dentures, crowns, bridges and other custom-made oral appliances.

Is prosthodontics the same as dentures and implants?

No. Prosthodontics refers to the branch of dentistry itself. Dentures and implants are two common prosthodontic procedures. Both general dentists and prosthodontists may place implants and dentures. It all depends on their areas of focus.