Dental Prosthetics

Prosthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry dedicated to making dentures (artificial teeth) for damaged or missing teeth. The word 'prosthodontics' comes from the words 'prostho', meaning replacement, and 'dontist', meaning teeth.

A prosthodontist (a type of dental specialist) receives extensive training in the fabrication of crowns, bridges, dentures and other restorative treatments. They also commonly treat temporomandibular joint disorders.

‍

Prosthodontics can treat a wide range of problems. Your dentist can refer you to a prosthodontist if you have:

Missing teeth.
Severely damaged teeth.
Temporomandibular joint pain or dysfunction.
Mouth or facial pain.
Aesthetic concerns.
Obstructive sleep apnea.

There are several types of fixed and removable prosthetic appliances, including:

Full and partial dentures.
Crowns and bridges.
Oral splints.
Night guards for temporomandibular joint disorder and sleep apnea.

‍

A general dentist is a provider of primary dental care. They provide routine dental checkups and cleanings in addition to basic restorative treatments including fillings, crowns and bridges.

A prosthodontist is a specialist in dentistry. After graduating from dental school, they receive three additional years of residency training. They specialise in making dental replacements such as crowns, bridges, dentures and more.

General dentists often turn to prosthodontists when dealing with complex cases or cases outside the scope of their practice.

‍

‍

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

Prosthodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on making dentures. A prosthodontist specialises in making dentures, crowns, bridges and other custom-made oral appliances.

‍

‍

‍

‍

No. Prosthodontics refers to the branch of dentistry itself. But dentures and implants are two common prosthetic procedures. Note, however, that both general dentists and prosthodontists can fit implants and dentures, depending on their areas of practice.

‍

‍