Back

Prosthodontist Vs. Periodontist: What’s The Difference?

Certain dental issues, such as gum disease or missing teeth, often require help from dental specialists to get your smile back on track. If you need a dental specialist in Mount Pleasant, we want to ensure that you feel informed and ready to book an appointment. At Advanced Dentistry of Mount Pleasant, Dr. Vinson specializes in prosthodontic care, though she is also equipped to help treat your case of gum disease. Here’s what you need to know about prosthodontics and periodontics:

Prosthodontists Specialize In Restoring Missing & Damaged Teeth 

The term “prosthodontics” comes from the term “prosthesis” meaning artificial body part, and “odont” which means “having teeth.” As you may be able to guess, prosthodontics refers to the specialization of restoring damaged teeth and replacing missing teeth.

A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who commonly performs procedures like dental implant placement and restoration, applying dental crowns, crafting dental bridges, and creating other dental prostheses like partial & full dentures for full mouth rehabilitation.

While most dentists offer these services, prosthodontists are uniquely trained to provide superior care when it comes to restoring and replacing teeth. Prosthodontists must complete at least three additional years of post-graduate training after dental school in an ADA-accredited prosthodontic program. 

That means that prosthodontists like Dr. Vinson are an ideal choice if you need to have a tooth restored or replaced. Dr. Vinson has years of experience in implant dentistry and other specialties and can provide you with the care you need to restore your smile and your bite.

Periodontists Specialize In The Treatment & Management Of Gum Disease 

The term “periodontics” comes from the term “peri,” which means “around” and “odont” which means “tooth.” That means that periodontists specialize in treating the area around your tooth. In other words, your gums! 

Periodontists are specialists when it comes to treating a variety of different gum-related conditions. Most commonly, they treat cases of gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums which is caused by improper oral care. With treatments like scaling and root planing, gum flap surgery, and gum grafting, periodontists can help treat cases of gum disease. 

Periodontists must undergo additional post-graduate training in the form of a periodontal residency at an accredited medical facility such as a university or hospital. These residencies are typically 30-36 months long.

In addition, most periodontists choose to undergo the optional American Board of Periodontology board certification to prove their specialization in the treatment of gum-related conditions and diseases.

Know The Difference Between A Periodontist And A Prosthodontist! 

Interested in learning more about prosthodontics? Need a dental implant or another dental restoration in Mount Pleasant? Contact Advanced Dentistry of Mount Pleasant for an appointment with Dr. Vinson. Give us a call at (843) 936-1690 to get started, or stop by our office at 1149 Oakland Market Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466.

Learn More about Advanced Dentistry

What’s The Difference Between A Prosthodontist And An Implantologist?
If you’re considering dental implants in Mount Pleasant, you may be wondering whether you should see a prosthodontist or an implantologist. What do these specialists do? What makes them different? The team at Advanced Dentistry of Mount Pleasant wants to make sure you have all the facts when it comes to your implant treatment and your dental healthcare provider.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
Teeth whitening is a common, non-invasive cosmetic procedure that can yield incredible results. But how long do the effects last? Find out more about it here.
Is It Safe To See The Prosthodontist During COVID-19?
Wondering if you can come and see Dr. Candice Vinson at Advanced Dentistry of Mount Pleasant during the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak? We’re open for business, and we’re taking every step we can to keep you and your family safe and healthy when you come to see us. Wondering what steps we’re taking to protect you? Read on, and learn more about the infection control procedures and best practices we’re following at Advanced Dentistry of Mount Pleasant.
Start your journey to a more beautiful smile

Ready to schedule your appointment?