Endodontist, pediatric dentist, periodontist, oral pathologist, prosthodontist — that’s a lot of syllables being thrown around, but today we’re just going to focus on the last one. Prosthodontics is a focused dental specialty, but if you’ve never lost a tooth or needed a crown, you’ve probably never met a prosthodontist. Let’s take a moment to consider exactly what this type of dentist does and how one might be able to help you.
A Prosthodontist Restores Smiles
Let’s break down the word prosthodontist. “Prostho” comes from the word “prosthesis” or “prosthetics.” “Odont” literally means “having teeth.” Therefore, a prosthodontist is a dentist who specializes in creating prostheses that restore people’s missing or damaged teeth.
A prosthodontist is the perfect person to help you if you need:
- Dentures
- Dental implants
- A crown or bridge
- Extensive oral reconstructive surgery (such as after cancer or a major accident)
They’re skills make them very good at creating and installing prosthesis that will give you a comfortable bite. This is important because a misaligned bite can damage your teeth and contribute to painful TMJ disorder.
Many prosthodontists go beyond the basics and offer additional services, such as bite guards to help with TMJ disorder and sleep apnea appliances. They also help individuals who suffer from a cleft palate.
Can’t a Regular Dentist Do that Stuff?
Many general dentists take continuing education courses to qualify them to create dentures, implant restorations, and more. However, a prosthodontist is different because after they complete regular dental school, they go through an additional three years of school. This is similar to the way some doctors go on to complete extra education after they learn all the basics of medicine. This extra training equips them to handle all sorts of cases where people need dental restorations, including very complex ones.
If your general dentist doesn’t have the experience or training necessary to get your smile back in working order, you may very well need to see a prosthodontist. You might also go to a prosthodontist to get a second opinion about any restorative procedure that you’re thinking about getting.
It’s About Function and Beauty
A prosthodontist is a person of science, but they also have an artful side to them. They want to create restorations that you can be proud to show off when you’re in front of a camera or just having a great time with your besties. That’s why you can visit a prosthodontist even if you have an old, ugly crown that you’re satisfied with. Many prosthodontists also install porcelain veneers for folks who want a full smile makeover.
If your smile needs some specialized attention, a prosthodontist might be just the right person to help!
About Our Practice
We have a team of talented dentists at our practice, including a prosthodontist, Dr. Israel M. Finger. He has decades of experience in prosthodontics and takes pride in helping people gain functional, attractive new smiles. If you would like to meet Dr. Finger or have any questions that relate to your oral health, please contact us at 985-809-7645.