Prosthodontists and orthodontists may appear to be two sides of the same dental coin. Orthodontists are said to treat existing problem teeth, while prosthodontists treat teeth that are no longer there. Prosthodontists have access to the latest tools and receive ongoing training in the newest forms of treatment. They can also work with children who are missing teeth or have teeth that are severely damaged due to genetics or poor dental care.
Unlike general dentists, prosthodontists specialize in repairing natural teeth and replacing missing teeth. Missing and extracted (removed) teeth can be replaced with artificial teeth (dentures), dental implants, caps, or crowns. Prosthodontists who have undergone rigorous training and have extensive experience understand the dynamics of a smile and the importance of maintaining a healthy mouth. A prosthodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating complex dental and facial issues, including restoring and replacing lost or damaged teeth with artificial devices.
If you are experiencing temporomandibular problems (pain and stiffness around the jaw, ear, and temple), or if you have sleep disorders or snoring, you should visit a prosthodontist. Prosthodontists are fully trained in dental implants, bridges, crowns, dentures, and jaw disorders. They can reconstruct and repair various degrees of damage to help restore your smile and improve the appearance of your mouth and jaw. Prosthodontists can also help replace missing bridges, crowns, and teeth, as well as partial or full dentures.
General dentists, orthodontists, and prosthodontists share similar skills, but there is one key difference: prosthodontists are the specialists dedicated to this type of care. Most people are familiar with orthodontists but only hear about prosthodontists when they are in their dentist's chair. However, a prosthodontist is often needed when something needs to be rebuilt or replaced due to a traumatic injury from a car accident, sports accident, or fall. When you visit a prosthodontist, be prepared to discuss your dental history and any factors that may have contributed to the current condition of your teeth.
Prosthodontists are THE recognized experts when anything in the mouth needs to be replaced. They also work with dental laboratory technicians who manufacture dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, and dentures based on designs and instructions provided by the prosthodontist.
