Prosthodontics is the dental specialty focused on repairing or replacing severely damaged or missing teeth. The word stems from the Greek roots “prostho,” which means “addition,” and “dontist,” which means teeth.
Dentists who specialize in prosthodontics go through advanced training in restorative dentistry. This involves a three-year accredited postgraduate program. They also study the technology and tools that make modern restorative treatments possible, including lab fabrication and material technology. The prosthodontist could be characterized as the quarterback of dentists since he has the responsibility for the treatment planning and the final say in the delivery of the optimal result.
The planning stage is arguably the most important part of prosthodontic care. At Novudentics, the team takes the time to truly understand not only each patient’s unique set of challenges but also what they hope to accomplish through prosthodontic treatment. This step allows for highly customized treatments that deliver impressive results.
A prosthodontist has extensive knowledge of the materials and their limitations as well as their interaction with the surrounding soft and hard tissues.
What are the benefits of prosthodontics?
Prosthodontists are the experts in correct diagnosis of the dental issues for the patient, which is the requirement for the right treatment. Prosthodontists can provide highly esthetic results as well as optimal chewing ability through different types of restorations. In some cases, treatments restore or replace teeth while leaving some of your natural teeth in place, meaning each tooth is structurally sound and supported by properly aligned adjacent teeth.
Replacing missing teeth improves your smile, enhances confidence and makes you more comfortable in work and social settings. A prosthodontist focuses on the forest behind the tree and provides the most cost and time effective option for the patient. Prosthodontists possess every possible treatment option and decide the best for each patient.
Oral appliances are also part of prosthodontic care. For those who suffer from conditions like sleep apnea or bruxism (teeth grinding), oral appliances are a non-invasive treatment option that truly delivers. Maxillofacial prosthetics is an area of highly specialized oral appliances for specific patients with missing oral structures due to trauma or previous surgery.
The main advantage of a prosthodontist compared to a general dentist is the experience and the knowledge in complicated cases and full mouth reconstructions. Those procedures can involve changing the dimensions of the face by opening the patient’s bite or restoring severely worn down teeth. In addition to the previously mentioned, the prosthodontist decides what other dental specialties will have to be involved in the treatment and at what sequence.
Why should you visit a prosthodontist?
Prosthodontists are specialty dentists with advanced training in implant, crown, and bridge work, providing expert care in complex reconstructive and cosmetic dental procedures. If you have missing teeth, severe tooth damage, or need comprehensive treatment to restore optimal oral function and aesthetics, visit a prosthodontist that has the specialized skills and knowledge to meet your needs.
What are some common prosthodontic treatments?
Many different treatments fall under the umbrella of prosthodontics. Some examples of prosthodontic treatment options include:
- Complete or partial dentures
- Dental crowns and bridges
- Implant placement and restoration
- Oral splints and nightguards
- Maxillofacial prostheses
- Cosmetic veneers
When you come for a face-to-face consultation, your dentist discusses all available treatment options, including what to expect if you forego treatment altogether. Patient education is an essential part of Novudentics, and there is always time for you to ask questions or express concerns as they arise.
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are a popular solution for the correction of teeth deficiencies. We specialize in help people get the right porcelain veneers to fit their needs. Not all cases are the same, and we understand this. We take the time to make the perfect fit so you can walk out with the perfect smile. Trust us to do your dental veneers.
The team at Novudentics is happy to assist you with your oral health needs, providing you with the necessary care to achieve an outstanding smile.
When you are ready to meet with a prosthodontist with extensive training and experience in complex dental restorations, call Novudentics to schedule a visit or book an appointment online today.