The word “prosthodontist” is actually a combination of two words: “prosthesis” and “dentist.” “Prosthesis” refers to artificial devices. All dentists, or “dentists,” are practitioners of a medical or dental specialty known as prosthodontics. Prosthodontists have advanced training in dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, jaw disorders, cosmetic dentistry, and more. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that nearly 300,000 people receive dental implants every year.
Over the last few years, there has been a rise in cosmetic dentistry as well as an increase in the number of Americans who say they wish they could change their teeth or smile to boost their self-confidence.
What Are the Main Roles of a Prosthodontist?
Prosthodontists care for natural teeth and change them to improve their appearance or function. Artificial teeth, dental implants, caps, or crowns are used to replace missing or extracted teeth.
What Are Their Required Education and Training
A prosthodontist has extensive training in the field of dental aesthetics, which includes replacing or restoring teeth. A person interested in being a prosthodontist must obtain undergraduate, dental, and graduate degrees. The training can take anywhere from eight to fifteen years to complete.
The process of becoming a certified prosthodontist involves:
- Completing an undergraduate degree.
- Dental school.
- Passing a series of national and state examinations to be licensed as a dentist.
The dentist must then complete four years of school to earn a master’s degree in dental surgery. Finally, he must pass the American Dental Association’s board certification exams for prosthodontics.
Why Should I See a Prosthodontist?
You may visit a prosthodontist for a variety of reasons, including an accident involving the mouth, a congenital (birth-related) condition, or simply to correct a cosmetic issue. They are well-trained in state-of-the-art techniques and procedures to treat complex dental issues, which traditional dentists—who generally have less formal training—can also do.
Their other focuses may include:
Denture Implants
A prosthodontist specializes in properly fitting and placing crowns, bridges, and removable or fixed dentures. The prosthodontist will assess your mouth and gums to determine the best size and shape and then create a new one that matches your jaw. The prosthodontist will craft a natural-looking denture that fits right, helping you to eat and speak better.
Snoring Issues
A prosthodontist is trained to help you work through your problems if you want to fix jaw pain or disorders or address issues like sleep apnea.
A prosthodontist focuses on the temporomandibular region of your body. This includes the muscles, joints, and bones around your jaw. TMJ disorders are typically apparent when people yawn, chew, or open their mouths during sleep. A prosthodontist can help you gain control of these issues and get the right treatment.
Traumatic Injuries to the Mouth
They can help you with trauma to the mouth and jaw, but a prosthodontist specializes in treating these issues. A jaw fracture or a tooth that needs to be replaced will be treated with a series of surgical options.
Cosmetic Dentistry
A prosthodontist can help you look and feel better with a variety of procedures. They are trained to provide quality dentures and fixed dental appliances that are designed to look and work naturally. The prosthodontist will also advise you of your cosmetic options, such as a dental implant or a single crown.
Conclusion
To conclude, a prosthodontist builds or restores teeth to provide functional and cosmetic improvement to your mouth and jaw. They are trained to provide quality dentures and fixed dental appliances that are designed to look and work naturally. The prosthodontist will also advise you of your cosmetic options, such as a dental implant or a single crown.
If you’re thinking about any cosmetic dentistry treatment, a consultation with a prosthodontist is highly recommended.
If you are looking for well-trusted cosmetic dentists in Lexington, look no further than our experts here at Lexington Smile Studio. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Call us today to book your first Prosthodontistry session with us.
