Prosthodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The others are: endodontics, oral and maxillofacial pathology, oral and maxillofacial radiology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, pediatric dentistry, and periodontics. A prosthodontist is a dentist who specializes in the restoration and replacement of teeth. This type of care can be provided by both general dentists and prosthodontic specialists.
What it Entails
After having completed dental school, prosthodontists continue on for another two to three years of additional training specializing in the esthetic and functional restoration of the smile. This additional training takes place through hospitals or university-based programs that are accredited by the American Dental Association, and includes studying the most recent literature in the field, attending lectures, treating patients, and fabricating restorations in the lab, as well as advanced training in implant dentistry, temporomandibular joint disorders, traumatic injuries to the oral structures, facial and dental congenital or birth anomalies, sleep disorders and snoring, and oral cancer care and reconstruction.
Services They Provide
Prosthodontics can provide full dental care as well as:
- Implants
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Veneers
- Inlays and onlays
- Complete and partial dentures
However, seeing a prosthodontist for your dental needs doesn’t always mean there’s going to be a need for extensive dental work (full mouth reconstruction, etc.). What it does mean is that Dr. Mehdi can diagnose bigger issues, troubleshoot problems before they escalate, and do strategic cosmetic and/or restorative dental work to provide the quality of life and the look you desire.
